Today I Am Thankful

Author's note: We spend a great deal of time complaining, worrying and regretting which can cast shadows over our blessings. Today I am taking the time to look beyond the clouds directly into the sun that is pouring into my life. Today I am squinting at the brightness of it all. Today I am feeling the warmth, and I'm thankful.
 

Today someone’s eyes closed—

Never to open in this life time again

Today my eyes are open

And for that I am thankful

Today someone is battling pain—

Mental, physical, emotional anguish

Today I woke in my right mind—pain free

And for that I am thankful

Today someone is out on the street with no place to go

Today I woke up safe and in my own bed

And for that I am thankful

Today someone is hungry with nothing to eat

Today I felt the rumbling in my belly

And I had food to quell it

And for that I am thankful

Today some is alone

 Someone is afraid

Someone feels uncared for and unworthy

Today through thought and action

I felt the love of family and friends

Today someone somewhere is struggling

With something

Today I am not that someone

And for that I am thankful

Did I leave anything out? What are you thankful for?

Happy History Months!

As we bid farewell to Black History Month, and say hello to Women's History Month, what better way to recognize the contributions of Black People and Black Women more specifically than with some poetry that captures the beauty of Black People. So, sit back as Poet Jennifer Brown Banks waxes poetically about our rich heritage. Enjoy!

TRIBUTE!

By: Jennifer Brown Banks

It’s no coincidence

That they acknowledge my people

In the month of February-

The month of love.

We are passionate people,

Bearers of beauty,

Strong and vibrant

Nurturers,

Soulfully

Serenading Life!

LIKE WINE, WE RARE

(For soul sisters)

By: Jennifer Brown Banks

Defiant hair,

Undeniable flair,

“Attitude”

To spare,

Like wine

We rare

Full hips

Mo-than-our-share lips,

Skin that’s been

Sun kissed,

Like wine

We rare

Sassy, beautiful

And bold

Breaking the mold,

Our greatness untold,

Like wine

We rare

Alice IN WONDERLAND

(For author Alice Walker)

By: Jennifer Brown Banks

Like

Alice in Wonderland

You make magic

Come to life!

Weave words

Into a journey

Of faraway places

Mystical makings

(and you make us proud)

Mirroring the beauty

Of what it is

To be a woman,

A woman of color,

A poet,

A messenger,

Awesome and aware,

Me,

Reflecting myself

Through that vibrant image,

Kindred spirits

With

Nikki,

Maya,

Gwen,

Phyllis,

Rita,

Sonya

And those whose words were silenced

Until you spoke,

Taking a stand,

Taking a chance,

Asking the world to take notice

As only poets do