Born in Miami, with crystal black skin, a facial daguerreotype with a happy pursed grin. Hard working parents, a home rich in modesty, Daily Our Fathers, and lessons of honesty. Her talent of song grew from a gracious heart, From FDR's stage, hand on chest her lips part; Soulful cries for America's freedom and bravery, separate, but equal, reminisce the stings of slavery. Often her opposites ask, why are you so black? Bitterness and tears, big momma consoles her with tact Despite healing's time, her heart bears the scars, trapped in the treachery of Brer Rabbit's baby of tars. One day, her spirit lifts for a hope that tomorrow She will find her brier patch and escape her sorrow.