Cheri Paris Edwards
not another sad black girl song
rising, ain’t shining,
like a blistery yellow-gold
sun, but glowing cool
like a silvery moon.
ain’t flying by the seat
of no worn-out polyester pants,
but struttin’ strong in jeans
fittin’ like a deep blue glove.
ain’t draggin’ round the same
ole’ travel-weary path.
forkin’ right this time,
steppin’ briskly toward
ain’t-never-done-this-
before.
ain’t singing no sad black girl
ain’t got no man,
ain’t got no money blues
but shouting alleluia!
glad to be alive.
