Not captured, not mastered

Enslaved only to what I choose

Never stood on an auction block

This freedom I did not lose

 

Never lived on a plantation

Worked from can’t see to can’t see

Lift your countenance when I approach

And don’t feel sorry for me

 

Don’t judge me based on history 

And I won’t hold you to yours

Let’s leave it on the pages

To be explained by the sages

So no regrets or shameful looks

My great great great grandparents yours may have took

But, we are both free from their response- abilities

I’m not blaming you

So, don’t apologize for them to me

 

Those who would have said it remained silent

Those who should have heard it are long dead

Let’s begin a new conversation

The past is enough said