The Stranger in Summer

by D. Scott Cooper, Adopted Person

One day as a toddler, I saw myself in a car bumper.
I was surprised to see how dark my reflection was that Summer.

My skin was dark brown, but my sister called it tan.
Thank God I became a good athlete, cause that gave me worth with man.

Then the College days behind me now, where I felt so in between.
I thought that I was hiding, but my dark skin was clearly seen.

Now I run the race, like a boxer beats the air,
just hoping there’s a finish line to find some solace there.

So many years have passed since I stared at my reflection,
I’ve almost now forgotten how deep was my deception.

These days my hair’s much straighter, and my color almost passes,
but now after all these years, I don’t care to please the White masses.

Thank God I no longer look at that dark face in the mirror,
and wish the person looking back were really not here.

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