waiting in line
to receive a blanket
she not quite able to stand
straight after countless years
of heavy work that begins
in early girlhood
carrying small loads
upon the head
developing neck strength
and courage
some weeks ago
before the storms
I woke with the words
African women
are born
to bear burdens
the evidence is clear
in the way they tend to
children, families
in the way they love
in the way they pray
in the way they remain
standing
still
Be prepared.
You’re up against far more than you can handle on your own.
Take all the help you can get, every weapon God has issued,
so that when it’s all over but the shouting you’ll still be on your feet.
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