Emancipation

I cannot rest ‘til I write this,
and I cannot read
or eat
or sleep

Or stand to be alone
by myself. I sit

and think of being with You
massaging Your feet
seeing Your smile as You look

my way. But it is not to be.
I am just a convenience,
a puppy to pet,
a child to scold,

a letter from a friend
bringing memories
which require no response
or commitment. Easy to dispose of
after a quick read. Easy to forget

I sit and await summons,
summary judgment on my devotion
but Your verdict has lost meaning

or conviction.I stand accused,

like a black man
in 50’s Alabama, by someone
who only sees my service
and ignores my humanity.

"That Thomas,he’s a good boy,
but he needs a whipping.,
Sometimes I wonder if he’s worth it."

The answer is no. I’m worth more.
Just give me my freedom,
And I’ll make my own way.