Different Shades of Darkness

Black Girls, Brown Girls, Dark Girls,

come in all shades of darkness.

Some in shades of Black, Brown,

Caramel, Red, and Yellow.

Some tall, short, round,

and some are thick, thin, and curvy.

Some are intellectual, musical,

inspirational, sensational, and motivational.

Some are mothers, sisters, grandmothers,

teachers, pastors, writers, artists, leaders,

executives, administrators,  friends, wives,

doctors, lawyers, scientists, entertainers,

athletes, CEOs, Congresswomen, and the

First Lady.

Some are hurt, rejected, segregated,

despised, hated, loved, celebrated,

liberated, married, divorced, single,

manipulated, encouraged, and discouraged.

Some have failed, in cells, been to jailed.

Some were burned, killed, raped, mutilated,

humiliated.

Some demonstrated, birthed nations, raised

their babies and other folks babies.

Some have long hair, short hair, curly hair,

nappy hair, kinky hair, wavy, and weaves.

Some are sometimes happy, sad, excited,

delighted, belligerent, diligent, militant,

anxious, suspicious, malicious, meticulous,

ridiculous, talented, creative, successful,

classy, sassy, talkative, sensitive, insensitive,

sensual, sexy, spiritual, holistic, charismatic,

charming, and gracious.

But, all of them know how it feels to be

a Brown girl.