Reasoning with Myself

Written by Summer Smith

I am not proud to be black, 

For why should I be ashamed? 

Though I face scrutiny of the scornful eye, 

I remove my cloak of fig leaves and come out of hiding. 

I am not proud to be black, 

For why should I be ensnared by comparison, 

Crushed by its merciless hand—  

A losing battle? 

I cannot escape fallen man. 

I was born in Eden 

Composed of dirt, robed in Melanin. 

My Soul delights in Its Garment; 

 It dwells in  

Eden, my motherland, 

Yahweh is my Father.  

I am not proud to be black. 

I am free to walk in my Maker’s confidence. 

I reason with myself and see  

That I am fearfully and wonderfully made.