Not Privileged-ku

No Justice No Peace
The price we pay is too much
It's Just Us wake-up

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

The High-lows

What occurs when high tide
becomes still water...
tell me...maybe you don't know
maybe you don't care but
ultimately you're affected...
me too...it's like that shriek
right before the rollercoaster
goes off the deep end and then
well the drop happened and
we're all surprised we survived
breathing dry from air burn
on our collective throats
tongues too parched to speak
face stuck in somebody slapped you silly
but that thrill of fulfillment...that high
another check off the bucket list
the I dare you back atcha
finally becomes a melodic hum
motionless for a twinkling
then it's over as we rush
to do it again...tell me
what occurs when high tide
becomes still water...

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Mind your business-ku

Clearly embarrassed
flushed red cheeks pushing eyes wide
words that punish you

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Southside-Light/Life-News

Home for the Holy-days
family and friends always
but no snow to brag about
we shout loud in spades
with chicken wings we played
tea and catching up on things
somebody didn't make the peach cobbler
too bad for us gobblers don't you know
but soon forgot with the crowd
stories of a city, small no more
with plenty of room around
for refugees to come and snore
rest and live easier as my old elementary
and junior high school become ground floor
of a safe place for the Syrians to be placed
odd it seems and just in case you're wondering
the Southside will never be the same
not because of new faces but of one nations shame

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Christ-Mas-ku

Mas Mais Plus More Christ
Mehr 'Akthar Zaidi Christ
Okuningi Christ

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Libation toast to Holiday Spirits

What's your story?
What's up with you...I mean
why are you always staring at me?  He asked.

My story is your story and I'm not really here
I mean...I'm a figment of your imagination
and you're looking in the mirror...you asked.

Oh

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Airport-ku

Overbooked airlines

the norm for the holidays

family waiting

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Don't Miss Your Blessing

Carter and them play too much
said they were going to put me on the squad
but when it came time for first round picks
they acted like they didn't even know me
started talking all loud about how friends
stick together and look out for each other
even went so far as to say
only their family-like friends
would make the squad this year
four more people were picked
I'm still holding up a wall
trying to be cool...but inside I was mad
only one more pick...forget it...
they called Peanut...can you believe that?
Peanut got picked over me...whatever
ok then, I'm out...picked up my bag
and headed for the door...
then Carter yelled "Slow Poke"
Hah! That's what family call me
"Get over here, he said...we voted you Captain"
Captain!  Wow...good thing I didn't leave

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Awkward-Pageant-ku

Steve made a mistake

So said he was it really

They all deserve crowns

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Motown-ku

My head is spinning
like an old school forty five
record player sounds

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Creative Interruption or His name is George?

I have 30 minutes before curtain...I mean
before survival job call-time...I mean before work,
regular people work...civilian work...I mean
I'm regular people...sort of...
there was a knock at the door
I moved as far away from it as possible
ended up in the kitchen yelling who is it
in my island nice gal accent...
I did it like I was across the dirt road somewhere
then my next door neighbor with whom I share a wall
yelled back even louder than me "it's George, your neighbor!"
his voice is like Billy Graham...anyway, George!?
Since when did we get on the first name basis?
I thought his name was the Good Reverend Doctor
that's what he told me when I moved-in 2 years ago
told me I could just call him Neighbor...uhhhh ok
so today he wants to be George...alright I'll play along
quickly I throw on my unattractive ensemble of costume hat,
sweat shirt with fake food stains, my green "The Wiz" promo shades
and furry flip flops that look like animal claws
I crack the door slightly...chain lock still in place
Yes? I ask, now in my everyday voice
"I wonder if you could do an old man a favor"
he then pulls out his flip phone and explains
to me in great detail why it wasn't working although he paid his bill,
in fact pays every bill on time
I listened, he's an elder and a real minister and seemingly kind
but after what felt like 10 minutes, I interrupt him
ask if needs to borrow my phone..."Yes if you don't mind"
I didn't mind, took the chain off the door, opened it &
joined him in the hallway, of course shutting my door behind
and gave him the phone...then I went to get my laundry
from the dryer downstairs, hoping by the time I'm finished
gathering clothes, he'd be done too, but upon my return upstairs
with my laundry basket balanced on my head,
he was still trying to figure out how to use the phone...
mind you, this phone is only one step up from a flip phone
but anyway, after a brief lesson, he was on his call
I returned to my apartment, waited for him
to knock again and return my phone...instead,
after about 10 more minutes he yelled at my door
"hey neighbor, neighbor I'm done, thank you & God bless you!"
I open the door ever so slightly  with the chain lock back in place
phone returned....I say no problem, you too George...
God bless you too...I'm thinking good deed of the day...check.
Now, out of this costume and into my corporate casual costume
I have 30 minutes before curtain...I mean...
before survival job call-time...I mean before work,
regular people work, civilian work...I mean I'm regular people...
ok confession...not regular, not common, not ordinary...
expanded view of  life-stage...everyone I encounter gets to be a player
...don't ask about the first costume...let's focus on good deeds

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Tourists & No Sleep

All they wanted to do was talk about
what it would be like when they arrived
sunny skies warm weather ocean for miles
they kept telling each other it would be
parties and famous people everywhere
they would lunch with the best of the best
and get invited to all of the premieres
random people on the street would ask
for their autographs based on association
they had nothing else to talk about
high shallowness grew by the minute
couldn't wait to get off that express
Greyhound from Phoenix to Hollywood
didn't even get my nap in...

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

For my Wolverine Homies

When they kept tearing the Shanty down in the Diag
because apartheid meant nothing to them

When maize and blue sweatshirts,
long johns with boxer shorts and
Swiss Air sneakers were the style

When No Doze and Ramen Noodles
purchased with recyclable bottles & cans
was a delicacy while pulling an all-nighter for an exam

When having a hot plate in your room was a sign of status

When the Mystic crew got together to play cards
for money we didn't have like we were old timers

When it snowed in October and we all got sick at the same time

When rushing and/or pledging a sorority or fraternity
was just as important as graduating

When Common Ground Theatre surfaced and
just about the whole dorm decided to audition
because it seemed like something fun to do

When the Original Copasetic's came to perform on campus
and we got to go backstage

When no one blinked after I dyed my hair orange

When parents, grandparents and siblings
came to visit only to find out you were now living off campus

When sleeping didn't exist because going to class,
rehearsal, practice, club meetings, community events,
sports events and studying required being up 24-7

When we did that production of "HAIR" with our clothes on

When establishing friendships and extended family, a home away from home,
if I eat you eat mentality was important

When we did that production of "Black Nativity" right before
the Christmas break

When establishing friendships and extended family, a home away from home,
if I eat you eat mentality was necessary

When we did that production of "The People Could Fly" and it made
the Sunday paper

When it's understood that if I eat you eat...no questions asked

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Coat-needed-ku

California cold
go please you are not wanted
fifty five feels like thirty

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

One can't figure out everything OR Missing foot pedal

The Storyteller weaves tales and tells those truths long forgotten by others...
One played the out-of-tune Piano morning, noon and night
Passerby heard the fragmented music and likened it
to his childhood days of attending a storefront church in the country
knocked on One's door and asked if he'd play for his family luncheon
One asked Passerby how much you paying?
Passerby said I'll give you $100 for the day
One said I'm gone need more than that
Passerby said I'll give you $200 and we'll feed you
One said I don't eat from strangers kitchens
but make it $250, a new suit and shoes,
a case of Pabst Blue Ribbon, a pack of Tareyton Lights
and you gotta deal...hmmm...Passerby considered One's request
ok Passerby agreed but asked how do we get this old piano across town?
Well, this old piano can't be moved or it'll fall apart said One
But you said you would play for my family luncheon said Passerby
One responds with, yes I did, but I didn't say nothing about moving my Piano
Well how was you planning to play asked Passerby
One stares at Passerby as if he has two heads connected to his neck
and then One calmly responds...with my fingers attached to my hands Sir...

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

The Civilian Job-ku

Holiday party
Lawyers dancing like crazy
Support Staff awe struck

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

On your behalf

On the panel was Virginia Hamilton, Barbara Ann Teer, Maya Angelou and Ruby Dee
Virginia Hamilton talked of African slaves in America who took flight
Barbara Ann Teer spoke about God-conscious Art stemming from the soul
Maya Angelou told us exactly why the Caged-bird sings
Ruby Dee narrated what dignity personified would sound & look like
leading the discussion was Sojourner Truth who reminded the listening audience
that she also was there to sell some of her books
they would be readily available afterwards...
these women set standards...not just as Artist or Activists
but as Human Beings aware of what real freedom requires
no matter what circumstances you encounter...
be bold, be brave, be honest
they graciously served those "be's" as our supper
strong gusts of wind-blowing our minds
because reconditioning a brainwashed people
takes a little mind-altering conversation
seats on the panel are plentiful they reiterated
but before you take a seat, please take a stand
use your voice and feed the hungry

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Cheap & Trendy-ku

Got blue nail polish
two for one at Dollar Tree
chipped before it dried

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Mighty Leaders Stand

Positioned in the center
a little rough around the edges
from being a target, by choice, in the battle
unmoved by random confusion...disorder
there's a tribe that must be protected
established head of  house-hold-safe-place
when words are spoken, all attend
the Staff is now given to generation next
space has cleared for the new Chiefs

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Chapter 1: I just came to read

When did the public library turn into a social hang-out
what happened to that quiet place to read, study and think
I might as well be at the Mall...this is unreal
children's section is right in the middle of everything
and I get it we're all in charge of watching the children...I guess
but this is like playtime central...no rules whatsoever
free time for the parents strolling around elsewhere
eating sandwiches and drinking soda in the corner
big bright orange sign on each wall "no food or drink allowed"
yelling across the room for their child not to climb on the tables
teenagers laughing and throwing books...what the...
homeless men sleeping where the computers exist
alright I'm done...note to self...find another place to read books

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Faith walk

Sometimes we have to just go with it
because if we stop and think about it too long
that thing that we're here to do won't get done
left to our own vices we'd do the other thing
and be all off course and losing time gained
from the first thing which we've decided
is the thing we have to just go with
otherwise lightening will strike...I'm sure

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Minnie's Stove-ku

Hot water Cornbread
Black eyed Peas and Collard Greens
Sweet Potato Pie

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

She don't even see the challenge OR Focus Gold

There's this tightrope I walk
not cautiously but boldly
feet clashing quickly with the
surface woven ridges
balance is strictly spirit-intent
motion is not bothered
never-mind opposing elements
falling never a thought...
see that something sparkling?
I'm headed right over there
there's this tightrope
if you wanna come...

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Today-ku

San Bernardino
unexpected bullets there
more ancestors now

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Tracking My Every Move Alert!

Remember back in the day
or back before social media
when being followed by someone
was usually when you were out walking
or shopping or by yourself off the beaten path

Remember how blowing a whistle
or talking really loud to yourself
or dramatic limping or arm flailing
was enough to make the follower leave you alone

Lets go back even further, High School
when you wanted to be followed
by the popular one or super smart one
who could get you in free to all the home games
or help you get A's on all your homework

What about to follow or not to follow
today, on the social platforms that reflect...
well, they reflect whatever you want it to reflect
real or unreal, sincere or insincere,
truth or dare we glare into a flat-screen crystal ball
see a mass of stalkers present and future
waiting for you to turn on, tune in or turn up

Remember, while you unfriend or stop following
or block the one who liked your messages one too many times
or sent too many private inquiries and your spouse got involved
or said the right thing at the wrong time and your feathers got ruffled
just try to remember...please remember...
the important thing to remember is that no one forced you
to sign-up for that account and jump on the bandwagon

Remember back in the day
when chatting meant actually talking on the phone

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

On your Mark-ku

Vroom, vroom vroom vroom
gearing up to get moving
screech around corner

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Comedy Downer OR Are you serious, we're still at this point?

I enjoy a good joke as much as the next person
love to laugh and welcome every opportunity
but if your material simply dwells on light-skin-dark-skin
hair-texture-weaves or the lack thereof
body size and other superficial targeting
with little to no real forethought...
not funny, not laughing and goodnight

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Casting Dreams

I got the part!
"Whatttt?"
Uh huh yep, I got it
it starts Tuesday
sent me the contract today
above scale plus 50%
my own trailer and personal masseuse
"Oh Wow!"
I know right it's about time
driver picking me up & dropping me off
special diet menu with cucumber water
hired a local natural hair stylist from South Africa
twin male body builder's to shave my legs
"You lyin'!"
If I'm lyin' I'm fryin' veggies in pork grease
got me a coach to practice that Island accent
shooting on the beach underneath palm trees
doing 5 hour days max
promised 60 days minimum
no weekends
"No weekends?!"
nope and still have access to the driver
"Really!?"
yep
"Word up!"
that's what I'm sayin'

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Going On

The sky is shining
but I must go
the grass is green
but I must go
everyone is friendly
but I must go
they'll pay all your expenses
but I must go
the children are growing
but I must go
the grandchildren are here
but I must go
the river is still
but I must go
the snow hasn't fallen
but I must go
the new year is coming
but I must go
wait, we're not ready
but I must go...now

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Walk by Faith-ku

Following your lead

hand-held blindfolded trusting 

this ground is solid

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Thankful-Grateful Happy Tears

I never tire of telling the stories
that paint the hills and valleys
ocean stretched body of my life
and those who helped shape it
it's good to remember
acknowledge all who were here in the physical
tonight on Thanksgiving Eve, I have a laundry list
a mile long of family & friends I want to honor
but I hold close in my heart, in this very moment,
as I write these words,
my Maternal Grandparents and my Uncle
the youngest of my Mother's brothers
I still embrace all of your lessons to live by...
to not only doing the right thing
but being the right being
no matter what foolery crosses my path
"you know better" I hear my GrandDad's voice
"don't give up" my GrandMom's mantra
"listen in school" my Uncle's advice as I went off to college
little did I know that beyond the 4 walls, life itself is school
and knowing better, not giving up and listening
is more than a notion! So grateful to be cut from that cloth
at least I got a good road map for my journey
forever you shall live family...eternally we're connected
I double over in happy tears as I remember your full presence
and still feel your love all around me...often and magnified
we may have buried your bodies but I'm so happy your souls live

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Uncovering Possible

I don't even know where to begin
it was some light-bulb like moment
then it was gone...but the memory
the memory lingers...can't shake it
I could be folding laundry or washing dishes
and it comes up in a song I'm listening to
or the sales paper fliers I'm about to throw out
or even better is when I'm talking on the phone
to someone I don't know like a bill collector
who knows nothing about this moment
and it comes up...they're talking about it
an illuminating light around a picture
that I'm not even looking for...not looking
but somehow it finds its way in front of my face
thoughtful, I guess there's something to this
so now I'm paying attention to these moments
documenting my reaction and experience
walking often and everywhere as I do
communing with nature...a holy thing to me
what the observers think or say about my presence
not my business...my business is to be present
in every moment that I'm awake in human-form
be fully in that and recognize another chance
to be of full-grown brilliance...the new norm...

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Water-man on the hunt

After taking almost a year to respond to my email
there's this sense of urgency in your tone
I'm like who is this now?
You calm down a bit and say "Roy"
Roy who? I don't remember you from Adam
"It's Roy girl, stop playing!"
Now I'm staring at the phone
Not playing but I will hang up
"It's Roy from Verdugo Hills...the hiking trail...
You and your cousin were lost
I gave you directions, my card for Alkaline Water
and a coupon for a free massage"
Wait a minute...
"You remember me?"  "We had a chemistry
but I thought your cousin was your man..."
Uh yea, yea I think I remember you
How can I help you?
"You so formal girl, I just read your email
I would've been called you if I knew ole boy was a cousin"
Oh ok, what exactly did I write in that email?
"Told me the mountains were conspiring to bring us face to face"
that's from a poem I wrote in 1989
I'm sure I was just sharing my work
sorry if I mis-led you into thinking something...
"But you said your cousin wanted info. on the water"
Ok yea...I'm sorry, I'm not really following you
"Nawww you know what's up
that was a way of telling me he wasn't your man"
What? Um look Roy, I gotta go
"Go where!?"  "Oh I see what's happening
you trying to blow me off, like I'm not worthy of you
or something, well I'll have you know I already got somebody
and she fine too, I was just gone give you a chance girl
but I see how you are, alright that's alright"
"Y'all still want to purchase the water?"
"I got a 2 for 1 promo going on"
No thank you Roy
"You so formal girl...but your loss baby, bye!"
He hung up on me? Again I stare at the phone
Did that just happen?

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

1989 Singer-Winger

They asked him if he could sing
Yes! He said...yes of course
They handed him sheet music to read
I don't read music notes but I do sing, he said
They asked him how do you know
what to sing without reading the notes?
He said I sit still quietly in corners
listening to the others around me
I listen to the auditioning singers
on the other side of the wall
I listen to the piano player practicing
I hang out at music stores
like Colony on 50 something & Broadway
Walk around Lincoln Center at call time
listening to warm-ups and laughter
2nd act Broadway shows when no one is watching
play show-tune videos on my neighbors VCR
over and over when she's home
and carry my hand-held tape recorder every where
when that doesn't work I write something myself
and tell you that someone famous like Marvin Gaye
sang it back in the day and you believe me
surprised that I actually sound like Marvin Gaye
I get the part and now I have to really learn to read music

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Respect the transition of day to night

There's a generation of children who have grown into adulthood

who missed the grooming, the instruction, the do's and don'ts

the necessities to function outside of the bubble they have created

around their life...unconscious but consciously seeking to be relevant  

fit into a box, boxing their way in or boxing their way out

either way it's some kind of fight...mostly with themselves

because who they are on the inside doesn't reflect honestly outside

or does it...does it bother anyone else that our adult children

rather rush home to watch a reality television show 

instead of the wonders of the Sunset...

...where did we go wrong?

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Odd-ku

Conscious stream of words

underscored by Bassoon burps

uncommon blending

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

No longer

Apologies no longer required
laughter no longer forced
smiling easy again
exposed teeth shiny white
bent on best being yet to come
and empty of pain...free...simply

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

It still takes the Village or Call #7 in 48 hours

The oldest just called from New York
said he missed me...miss you too I responded
said that he was doing something right in his life
and just wanted to let me know his good news
he's talking really slow, much slower than usual
I'm listening intensely to his silence...
then out of the blue, he asks
what's your-my definition of success?
Curious as to where that question was coming from
I took pause...told him that
having the courage to start again if need be
start again, show up, get up and put one foot in front of the other
in whichever area of life required it most in the moment
told him I was happy to hear that he was doing something right
and that he thought enough to want to call and tell me
long breath of silence...I'm like are you there?  He said yes....
you smoking or something...said he doesn't smoke...anymore
oh ok good, I really meant are you high but I let it go...
he told me he's always considered me successful
even as a little boy he always thought I had it together
and was doing the thing...doing my life and he's proud of me
awww shucks, now that was unexpected...thoughtful even...
made me think even more about his question...success huh
pondered his observation of me from boyhood...now manhood
recalling how he always gave me the side-eye
when I told him he couldn't do something...
discipline was having it together
enforcing it was doing the thing
and continuing to pursue a dream was doing my life...as he put it
you know I'm grateful that at least one somebody out there
can express that the basics, what feels like simple pieces
of our existence was enough to be considered successful
no extra applause-accolades-recognition
your definition man-child will be my definition tonight
baby steps complete now turn off the phone,
get some rest and wake-up tomorrow
ready to step into your man-size shoes & walk my dear...
walk right into your very own success

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

When Storytellers Gather...

We all got there at 4:30 am
just in case dawn decided to come early
the grass around the tree slightly damp
a few sat on boulders nearby
others leaned against the tree trunk
I decided to lay on my back in the grass
didn't want to miss a second of
Mother Nature saying good morning
Zahara broke out in a piercing shriek
but it was elongated like a summoning of
Truth-Tellers, the loud-quiet types
who spew the honest to goodness
but only when you ask
for fear that you can't handle it
most can't or won't or simply don't believe
Brother Bruce put a quiver behind it
with his hand-clapping and beat-boxing
humming from the younger ones
open mouth singing from the elders
different lyrical-lecture-like words spinning
together with passionate non-verbal
physical glide-flutter-leaping types
splitting air-bound flexibility
blessing the energy
yes Mother was waking up
the higher she rose the stronger the voices
the one who came from Tokyo
fluidly pampered hearing ears with sonnets
it was something special to be in the company of
counted among those entrusted to
a calling to hold in memory
document in writing
press on record
capture with moving tape
digital devices and such
share with the universe
a word, a tradition, a lesson,
a gift, a seed to be planted
new birth like a spiritual dunk
in the sea water growing strong
like this tree we surround
giving windows to the freshness
daybreak now upon us
all of us here gathered
sermon-ing, sharing, offering
and more so...just being

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

2nd Marathon Training, Hiding and Goosebumps

Bell bottom leggings dull gray
Sweat-shirt old school
over too long t-shirt
cause I was cold in the sunny breeze
another shirt tied around waist
in my imagination it's back support
sports belt carrying water, ID
and keys are wrapped around that
scarf to protect neck exposure
big brim fisher hat over an obvious pink bandanna
shades to shade my visual sensibilities
new balance sneakers with 1/2 inch space at the big toe
curb position extend leg right then left
ouch, hip wasn't warm enough
I see you in my peripheral side stretch Sir
I nod a hello and you mouth the word stunning
taken aback, I manage a crooked smile
thinking you must be able to see
my full-length body suit underneath these layers
then I mouth back the words thank you

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

No GPS-No Smartphone

On being intentional or random
clarity about your purpose direction
not simply going with the flowing traffic
strategy or whatever happens happens yea
no, listen, write it down, pen to paper people
it's your map with no worries of dead batteries
gets you to home-base quicker, safer & satisfied

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Team Alhambra

I keep asking myself what kind of gasoline is it
that keeps us dancing like that for so long
I mean you'd think a couple of hours would be enough
but no we always have to go for broke and bruised
5 hours of Salsa, seasoned with a 1/2 pint of Merengue & a dash of Hip Hop
I would say it's singles insanity but we're always in good company
bruised legs, scuffed-off toenail polish and arm slightly pulled out of socket
this is a contact sport, this dance, this hit you better be ready for in advance
truth test, you can and will fall with the wrong leading  partner
floors are usually slippery and sadly every lead you won't be able to follow
the short ones, the muscled ones, the Rico Suave ones
the one's way too excited and off beat
the ones who say they will be on dancing with the stars next season
the ones who drag you on the floor when you say your feet hurt
responding I'll go slow...the non-gentleman who could care less
that you're sweating like a sponge over-saturated with suds
and can barely walk...nope, all they see is how great you were
with the previous leading partner on that very long and fast song
band singing we don't need no music all we need is rhythm
something like that...Boogaloo Assassins putting it down
with great vocals matching the instruments expression
It was fun though, entertained within the entertaining
jubilee-ing our Sister and her solar return
birthdays still blessing her being
reminding her/us there's still a purpose to fulfill
one day I'll figure out that gasoline formula
stored up specifically for these nights to remember

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Pariku

Ice straight to the back
the unexpected attack
cold cowardly smack

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Coming from under the rock

Ahhhh too bright
squinting eyes adjusting
slow moving belly crawl
roll over to right side
arm stretches
Ahhh it's hot OR
Ahhh it's cold
fingers part into HI-Hello
knees/legs unfold
feet arch flexing
toes spread lead ankle rotation
pause...what's this? Oh
what's that? Oh
who is that? Oh ok
life continues while in hibernation dear
get liberated...today... Ahhhhhh

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

What's for you...

No coincidences
nothing by chance
she did not get lucky
he did not know the right people
are they really on a roll?
things don't just happen
mercury is in retrograde...
not a good enough reason
pay attention to the signs
mirroring back the same
volume on blast
really, that loud dude?
yes so you can hear
when nobody is listening...
or are they...are you?
No coincidences
your season has arrived


by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

3 time zones - 6 hours

40 degrees, down pour of rain from Detroit
to Nashville to Los Angeles this morning
watching the sunrise over the clouds
window-seat...feeling this iron bird...
non-flapping wings...floating on air...
rising higher above the clouds
to ear pop and chewing gum region, a bit painful
oh look, here comes the sun now...rain all gone
it's like a smooth ride to somewhere special
until little Molly decides that testing
her leg strength against the back of my seat
is her mission for this flight...not having it
I turn quickly to shoot her that look
her mother is pre-occupied
picking up cracker crumbs
umph, she's kicking...that hurt...excuse me!
My attempt to get the adults attention...Molly laughs...
excuse me but can you make sure your daughter
doesn't kick the back of my seat again
"Molly are you kicking the nice girls seat"
huh...girl...did she just refer to me as a girl?
You know what, ok...I'm not getting offended,
that was a compliment right...umph! Another kick
no she didn't...I turn around and look at the mother
who is now preoccupied with her I-Phone...
Molly is not only kicking the back of my seat
but also singing Whitney Houston's
"I wanna dance with somebody"
Is this really happening?  How old is this kid
and who taught her that song?
I'm thinking this is some kind of "gotcha" moment
and now I'm looking around for the camera crew...
no camera crew and no flight attendant nearby
I ring the bell above my seat and quickly
"How can I help you" appears...well...
I explain the seat-kicking situation
the flight attendant offers me another seat
Great! I'm gathering my belongings
then I noticed Molly's back pack was open
everything strewn about the walkway
Cheetos, Jello cups, Oreos, an Ipad, some kind of doll
several books including "Acting for the High-Spirited Child"
"Introduction to Meisner" and "Improv 101"...wow...
everyone wants to be an actor...
Molly and her mother are both crying now and
telling the entire plane how they methodically
burned down their barn back home
with the husband-dad sleep inside...
they just confessed to murder and arson...double wow
I pick-up my bag, take a moment to observe this Molly & Mother
acting duo and finally make my way to the front of the plane
middle seat, surrounded by two snoring people
but it almost feels like the tranquil sunrise
that smiled at me earlier...I'm good now
I faintly hear Molly & Mother...wait, just remembered
earphones, I pulled my earphones from my purse
the smooth sounds of Kenny G...
clearer skies ahead...yea...
and the point of this story
don't let the drama steal your peace...
next up on airline radio station channel 7...
Earl Klugh...alright now, time to get some shut-eye

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

The difference is the footprints you leave

Walk this earth
our steps are ordered
Walk this earth
to be a conduit of love
Walk this earth
and carry their burden
Walk this earth
your peace for a cause
Walk this earth
to spread more light
Walk this earth
and build homes for the babies
Walk this earth
our motion fast forward
Walk this earth
to slower paces in the winter
Walk this earth
and to the dust we will return

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Launch Time Thoughts

It's like air going into a balloon
can only take so much before pop
pop is sometimes a good thing
things have to be free to grow or go
go and grow on to what's better
better for it or him or her or them
them not knowing which way is up
up is new and everything prior to it familiar
familiar is comfortable, yes?
Yes and like the balloon...when pop comes...well
Well...it's time to fly in new territory

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Can't Decide? You won't have to in a minute

to start or not to start

to go or not to go

to do or not to do

to give or not to give

to call it what it is or 

to ignore what it is

to believe or not to believe

to sleep or not to sleep

to eat or not to eat

to tell it or not to tell it

to accept or not...accept or not...

either way destiny is sure

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Music Message

The high school marching band woke me up this morning
actually they wake me up every morning during this season
it's like they're right outside of my window
yea those Drums are giving me my own personal show
and I just lay there pretending like I don't hear them
they start to play louder...I don't move
faster rhythms to express their skill...nope not moving
as seconds turn to minutes, 10, 20, 30 OK I'm up
now the brass section has joined in
alright they sound kinda good
think I recognize this song...maybe not
about to lay back down for 10 more minutes
until the woodwinds take the field
ahhh the Clarinets, Saxophones and Flutes
carrying that smooth  melody right on in
to the George Benson version of "On Broadway"
I knew I recognized that song...I'm really up now
It's gonna be a good day

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Fall on the West Coast - Haiku

The nights are chilly
Sweet November not so much
Good heat peaks high noon

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Miss Cyndi's Pearls...

We all have our mission our assignment our purpose
We all have our own path to walk our own trail to blaze
When we humble ourselves to be ourselves
the mission, the assignment, the purpose,
the path and the trail are all clear for taking flight
so here's a toast to spreading our wings
right on schedule to soar

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Grapes at the 99 Cent Store

Ok, so here's the scenario

Sunday, after church, 99 cent store

looking at the grapes and other fresh food items

taking longer than usual to decide on the green or the red

began to wander to other parts of  the food section

looking at the refrigerated meats...I don't eat meat

but fascinated by the whole chickens 

bacon strips side by side with the Aloe Vera Juice

umph, yea I'll pass...as I turn left to return to the fresh foods

a seemingly older man says "hey, you're a looker"

I smile and nod trying to get back to the grapes 

he then says quite loudly...one notch below yelling

"Good lookin' you a head turna, turned my head"

in bashful-uneasy mode I say thank you 

trying to escape the food section by quickly walking 

towards the check-out register...I heard a voice say

"Hey you didn't get your grapes...where you from girl?"

Huh? Oh wow he's following me...what to do...

"Girl where you from, I'm from Louisiana, Shreveport!"

Oh he got my attention...see I got family around Shreveport

"Well I'm really from Homa, H-O-M-E-R" he said

Ahhhh nice, that's where my grandfather is from, I responded

looking at this man from head to toe...really looking 

and thinking if he cleaned himself up 

he might actually be a head turner

well, he went on to tell me who his people were 

why he left his wife in 75' and moved to Cali in 78'

that he has twins, a boy and girl, Stacy and Tracy

and now he lives on Hollywood Boulevard with his Uncle

I couldn't help but wonder if he was being literal

I mean about living on Hollywood Boulevard and all

definitely had that "I'm in transition" thing about him

he didn't smell or anything but wore that dirty orange cloak

on his pretty brown...common among those who reside

outside on sidewalk floors with tent ceilings

no judgement just reality...anyway 

I continued to listen to him...his voice, the cadence

his colloquialism reminded me of my elders long gone

his features made me think we might actually be related

and after about 15 minutes I announced I had to go

he said "give me your number girl" and I said no

"why not you and I could be good together"

I laughed, told Jesse, that was his name Jesse 

told him that it was nice meeting him 

and Happy Sunday 

then I headed back towards the grapes

Jesse walked out of the store talking to himself

handheld shopping cart full of food in tote

the store alarms didn't even go off

and while everyone saw him leave

no one said a word including me

I decided on the red...and scene  

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

What's Your Story?

I maintain that we're all Storytellers
our every moment is storied
how we choose to share or not
is also a part of the story
if you sing it and I dance it
or he writes it and they walk it
the other one paints it like a
Griot speaks it with grand gesture
or whispers...it's valid and valuable
musicians of all instruments know
directors of plays and players
producers of film they all know
as long as humanity exists
there's a story to tell

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Before Yes

Before the Mayflower we were already giving thanks
Before the first snow we will break bread at the same table
Before the eve of Christmas whole phrases will be spoken
Before the new year countdown giggles become belly-hurt laughter
Before Martin Luther King Jr. Day we will hold hands
Before the Valentine hype we will know each others heart
Before the 4-leaf Clover appears we will acknowledge the green light
Before the rain stops falling we will walk a path clear of yesteryear debris
Before the gentle blink of Spring we will be sprung
Before the 4th of July we will make our own fireworks show
Before summers end we will be joined at the hip...who knew
Before the leaves fall and colors fade we will be masters of love

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Transformation Haiku

The Ancestors live
Blood still flows through you and me
Death is not the end

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Camel Tracks, an excerpt

We finally arrived to Luxor via sleeper car train from Cairo

Valley of the Kings, Valley of the Queens, Tomb of Hatshepsut and others

Mouna a Nubian woman, our tour guide was full of wisdom jewels 

she shared many stories along the way that others will never know...

Approaching the Valley of the Queens

Police with huge machine guns were assigned to be our escorts

in fact they were obligated to protect us

as we were honored and recognized as direct descendants 

kinship to those in the Valley and Tombs and Phantoms in the wind...

It was long day happenings and we took a 30 minute 10 minute break 

breathing life while leaning and sitting against an Alabaster restaurant 

offering us juices of Mango and Hibiscus to freshen our parch...

a Nile River view to open our minds...this trip would change everything

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Thursday Night News

I got the news
a peer had left us
too soon gone and too young

I got more news
a family member had to go
patriarchs don't exit easy

God speaking to us a friend said
so sorry for us left behind

I got heaviness hovering tonight
petitioning hallelujah rains of joy for the mourning

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Monthly Haiku

Food Rent Car And Gas
Girl Still Paying Student Loans
Dance Pray Dance Pray Dance

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Pick Me or Opportunity Window

They all had their hands out reaching
reaching for one thing, something, anything
anything that would confirm, validate, mark them worthy
worthy beyond the company they keep, private thoughts they hold
hold tight in their neck vein, promises to not be angry
angry when they have every right to be or not to belong
belong to that group over there who always seem happy
happy not being them or requiring so much more
more than average from this course
course of life cycling to and fro around in circles
circles too blended to be broken, locked doors...windows
windows...that's the latest entry portal to success

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Foster is Nice & Honest

Being nice goes a long way but being honest goes even further
Can't remember the last time someone went out of their way
to walk me to my car...I mean sure, yes night was upon us
but having some place to be next means that goodbyes are quick
and taking a pass on idol chit chat was the norm
It was burnt Bar-B-Q Friday at Lola's Place,
the best kept secret in Laurelton, Queens
Lola was from North Carolina but could really cook
I mean she cooked like she was from Arkansas
reminded me of  mom's home-cooking
so I didn't mind taking that trip every now and then from the City
took me 2 hours one-way  with traffic backed up on the Tri-boro
a couple of accidents and 2 or 3 tourist drivers slowing up things
but I finally got there and pleasantly surprised it wasn't packed
ordered my Cabbage and Greens, Black-eyed Peas,
Cornbread, Potato Salad, Burnt Ribs,
Banana Pudding & 1/2 gallon of Grape Kool-Aid
Lola had run out of Sweet Tea and Mint Julep
put up a sign saying Grape Kool-Aid was on the house
so I  wanted at least a 1/2 gallon for my trouble
no problem for Lola, in fact she gave me two gallons because I'm a regular
I felt kind of bad knowing I had gave up Kool-Aid back in college
along with Ramen Noodles and Now-Laters that kept getting stuck in my teeth
I'll give it to somebody, that's what I get for being greedy
Anyway, the music was blasting as usual
Bobby Blue Bland was giving me a headache
I wonder why it's taking her so long tonight and no one is even here
oh good she's bringing me an appetizer
I knew it! She's trying to sell me on these Turnip and Mustard Greens
she know I only eat Collards...ok thank you
yes thank you I'll try them this week...she must have run out of Collards
sent her son to the Bodega or something to get more
uh huh yea, I know exactly what's going on
should be grateful she's willing to feed my picky palate
an hour later finally 2 full bags of smell good food
I don't have to check because she always hooks me up
Lola came out from the kitchen to hug me before I leave
whispers that her son is still single
I immediately remind her that there are a lot of nice single woman
who would love to marry her son but I'm not one of them
I tell her this on every visit and she laughs
her son Foster approaches us, smiles at me too long
picks up my bags, announces that he will walk me to my car
thank you Foster but I'm good I say
no you're not I'm walking you to your car he responds
I'm in no mood for arguing so off we go
Foster gently places my bags of Southern Soul Food for the week
in my backseat
that was nice, he's nice and yes it's nice to have someone
carry bags and open doors
uh oh why is he smiling at me again
thank you Foster I have to go now...huh...
you have to tell me something
I really don't have time to...what...
I have Greens stuck in my teeth
I look in the car mirror...oh wow, I look like I'm missing my teeth
thank you for telling me Foster
he hands me a toothpick, I accept
jump in my car slightly embarrassed
as I head back to the City
thinking I might have a new friend
at least he won't see the burnt Bar-B-Q sauce
it always manages to glaze my nose

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Book Title Block

Lifetime of disconnected words
swirling through head scrabble
why don't you write a book
lipped the foreigner
sitting near on the park bench
no response...thought
please stop talking to me stranger
come on ask me a question
ask me a question he ordered
new thought...get up and walk
slowly backwards turn and run
you understand English right
word connecting phrase...
is this fool still talking to me
nice girl you don't have to say anything
nervous...why is my pepper spray at the bottom of my purse
foreigner places his hand on my shoulder
reflex..."Somewhere Over the Rainbow"
spilled out from some guttural deep
in concert with combat boot kicking him there
every curse word I'm not writing in this poem
eloquently came together
like the scrabble title I hold
one day connecting my stories in books
last thought...the tales of annoying encounters on park benches


by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Awakening

vespertide sets in 

tranquil easy in the ether

pastoral blue notes sing

secure rumblings from the inside

must relinquish my will

but thine will squeeze/drip out every bit 

fear-holding-splitting shell to touch core

that thing no one even knew was there

utterance please forgive my mind

destiny thoughts too vivid to believe

now hands draw letters of love

devout devoted durability mandatory

no settling on appearances

hellos and goodbyes are equally important

eventide takes over 

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Over in Inglewood

Maestros who flow on the radio 1 time

big show on the radio 2 times

get funky with the best of them 3 times

I tunes and the rest of them it's time

hold up 4 minutes til' it goes live

got a dollar on it hiding in my beehive

now break dance break and smile 

voice-lude intro with Richard, Mo & Miles

No his name was Ed Spaghetti 

pink hair is pretty and black wings matter

beautiful scatter-free energies 

parting red seas on airwaves everywhere

hashtag don't sleep accelerate

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman 

 

This ain't figure it out as you go

Winging-it is not for everyone
in fact if you plan on picking up the mic
please, for everybody listening...make it good-memorable
positive stuff favored but even roll on the floor ignorance
is better than a deer in the road frozen where am I face
lasting exactly 3 minutes long...what happened?

I couldn't think of what to say next?

What?!

Yea that lady with the purple Afro-Mohawk walked in and...

And what...you couldn't think straight?

I, I mean...well...

Well what?  You're going to have to tell me something
these people paid for a 2 hour show baby and all you gave us was 10 minutes

I'm sorry, I know but that Afro-Mohawk was blocking the poster

The poster, what poster...wait you mean the big full-length poster of you on the back wall?!

Yea, I practice in the mirror so looking at myself helps...gives me ideas too

Huh!  You have got to be kidding
you mean to tell me
you didn't have your set prepared
you didn't memorize anything, write out your script or nothing...
just think you can plant yourself on a soapbox with a mic
hit it in front of crowd who don't know you from Adam....

But she blocked the poster and at home the mirror always...

The mirror...poster-home...what?!  You can't be serious...

I just needed a comfortable place to look...then I could honestly tell my story

Look at me...looking into someones eyes...other than your own
that's as honest and comfortable as it gets
otherwise ask yourself why you're in this business...
I'm keeping your cut tonight...go take a class somewhere...
had to pull out every trick in my bag to save our box office...

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Bravery matters

Practical mind says this is going to be hard work
Artistic mind says this is going to be a work-out of fun
Practical mind says that's time better served elsewhere
Artistic mind says that's time to serve the invisible masses
Practical mind asks what's the point?
Artistic mind answers the point is!
Practical mind asks how are you planning to pay for that?
Artistic mind answers the wealth will find me!
Practical mind says there's always next year
Artistic mind says right now is the promise
Practical mind says don't stand on that cliff...you might fall
Artistic mind says oh that cliff...my launching pad to fly
Practical mind says that car might not make it on a quarter tank
Artistic mind says I'm glad I got triple-A and a bus pass
Practical mind asks what about the children?
Artistic mind says the children are leading the way
Practical mind says I think you may be in over your head
Artistic mind says that's why I follow my heart

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Audition

Cattle call, lined-up, no union affiliation
concentration on whether to belt or go for the head-note
quote of the day mantra..."you got this"
piss all over the stage uh huh yep  to come
some nervous wreck quickly exits the room teary
weary and shy got checked 'fore leaving home
poem in motion said red means run not stop
cops don't have nothing better to do than harass
grass we're sitting on is concrete
feet tired from standing 2 hours
power push ups like a man to scare away sex-seeker
weaker flipped to strength when he approached in fun
one glance only chance to escape
cape tendencies from a comic book hero once known
grown now sipping tea humming vocalizes spit-drizzle on text
next...finally my turn...

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Angels Among Us? OR Taking the Stairs?

The real reason I ask is because as quiet as it's kept
we all know that a big part of our functioning  is concealed...
concealed in the needing of someone or something
doing the required task on our behalf or for our benefit
once we find out who the someone or something is we must trust...
trust that all the tools in their tool kit are sharp
and/or at the very least jimmy-rigged to work

My neighbor who we'll call Black
who actually wasn't my neighbor
but a former resident of my apartment
a former drug spot turned renovated over-priced 1 bedroom
which continued to be targeted by drug-heads
now lived in the stairwell of the hallway on cold or rainy evenings

As uncomfortable as it was to be greeted
by a sleeping body near my door in the early morning or late night
I was grateful that scratching-shaking-sweaty strangers
didn't dare knock on my door when Black was on-site

Our communication, me and Black...always cordial borderline friendly
he was the first man to volunteer to carry my shopping cart with wheels
up 6 flights of stairs when the elevator was out...every 2 days or so
several men were always hanging around the lobby
only a few willing to help a sister out...maybe 1 flight
never all 6 but smiles and endearing names...Negra and Morena was constant
anyway, I stopped asking Black questions regarding his well-being
he informed me that he had a place to live and food and a nice girlfriend
said he was on assignment when he was at 562...that's the building number
he repeatedly said if anybody tried to mess with me
that he was given orders to handle it...

Something about how he said what he said...
always put me at ease...handle it...given orders to handle it
yea he got me...got me trusting and accepting temporary inconveniences
he was a sharp tool appearing as jimmy-rigged

On the day I moved out, Black was there
first man to volunteer to help
he carried my  Armoire down those 6 flights of stairs
the elevator was out...and all I'm thinking is...this Angel...got my back!

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

A Necessary Fuel

So refined that harsh winds only make the glow more distinguished

Dust storms simply clear the pathway that's waiting

Tumbleweed intertwined stretch flat to service as surface

Mind-mixing-think-tank re-creation right up there

Tall mountains channeling meaningful assignment

A calling that shall not be interrupted by faint applause

Gifts are like food...meant to be shared

Go on now with that platter of gold bread balanced on your crown

Audiences everywhere have been patiently starving

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Crenshaw Soul

Being in the mix of commonality
Among community of familiarity
Cool clapping to gospel beats
Stepping old school rhymes with our feet
Classic soul strolling the streets where low riders call home
Catfish and hollow Pineapples filled with Watermelon Juice
staggered lines await baskets of Fried Broccoli and Fried Chicken
all kinds of Sweet Pies on these mobile outdoor kitchens
Incense smokey clouded my eyes...winked unknowingly...
Was that a snake around his neck?  Oh helllll to the...
and this other one has a pit bull in tow
Young man grabs my hand and professes I'm his future plan...
Uhhh no...this smile you see is my default not de-flirt squirt...
You look like you could be my son...
Go have fun with the get fresh crew...to the left doing the humpty dance
Music everywhere, people watching both natural and fake hair
Baby Carriage's, Wheelchairs, the injured brave this crowd
Loud, black and beautiful...lives that matter all around
Visiting every booth, entering every contest, accepting every free sample...
Hebrews, Muslims and Christians advertising their ministry...
Come get saved for a small fee
But won't cost you nothing to pray with me Sister...
Brother please let me be...I hear you...I see right through...unique
We the people believe in the power...the coming together...
It's so much more than a backyard party...

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Disarm Frustration or More Hugs Required

Respect massages the heart...calms the mind
introduces oxygen to those clogged places
an exercise in generational decency...fragile essence
crying out for relief most sane folk won't comprehend
lost in the wilderness...pretend with me for a moment
a being, lost in the wilderness, begs natures cure for its dis-ease
squeezing the last drop of gel from the Aloe with its third eye
piercing that physical shell...desperately searching for its purpose
on the inside while the tornado spins...the being-our-being falls out of control
judgement, criticism and a list of everything it stole...disrupting life-habit
have it your way and fight...have the high way and love it back healthy
Respect massages the heart...calms the mind
introduces oxygen to those clogged places...
an exercise in exorcising generational weakness...root your strength

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Code for get the Tambourine

Sage and White Candles
Frankincense and Myrrh
Honeysuckle Soap Bubbles kiss the water
Meditation music is 23rd Psalms...sung...Cassette Tape...Grandma
Bended Knees on Hardwood Floors and Concrete
Sweet Potatoe Pie waiting in the Kitchen
It's hot inside at midnight and the Ceiling Fan is broken
A thousand Thank You's and Have Mercies for what's coming...

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

For Cochise

When your memory of 25 years ago is different from his
laughter between voice and speech class
'cause your down south sound was sexy to his ears
gathering growing Artists to discuss Shakespeare turns into A Raisin in the Sun
or Malcolm vs. Martin because being from up south, mid-west, thumb-area in the mitten,
bordering on Detroit, simmering revolution came from the pit of my belly...
not telepathic I like your smile messages...
we're meant to be family not foe...friends not lovers, oh...he listened for a minute
then gifted me a song on flute or harmonica...music-ing his native blues
as my roommates intervened "Oh How I Love Jesus" surround sound-style
'til we just 'bout got kicked-out of our domicile...
pray, chant, meditate, break bread and repeat
good stuff you can't make up as we walked the streets of  New York...
midnight...1 am, 2 am...wee hours of the morning...
still rehearsing those steps, that monologue, our duet for tomorrows 10 am class
he always called me a class act...said you're ahead of your time...
you're not looking at me...or anyone, he said...
just looking ahead, beyond Krush Groovin' School 101
so fast that the notion of running out of gas or accidents or detours was never entertained...
all true...recollection of 1st time voting for a president was Jesse Jackson...
he played Michael Jackson and Taylor Dayne on the boom box
in front of the school on W. 73rd St.
spelled our names backwards in Chickasaw tradition or what he saw as tradition
Nita was there, Ingrid, Randy, Sandra, Willie them...
Trice and Lisa...Joey Barcia...Ivy...
all musical theater babies...all with different memories...of 25 years ago...
most of us still here in the physical realm...
chatting each others ear off like today was yesterday...
when your memory is definitely different from his...well...
that's when you come to accept that genuine connection is timeless
and good memories...priceless...

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Honesty...Love...closer to

Unconditional honesty forced love to step forward

to restore volume to muted voices

to release silent plugs from ears

to unfold tightly-gripped arms wrapped around individual universes

to cautiously but surely allow feet to touch land...

they're standing now...these babies...young and old

closer to-day-star-light-moon-beams-bright...pondering if...

to consider what's already prepared and available or...

to be disqualified by cowardliness 

too smart for yesterday's distraction

too busy to be bothered today...

with eyes lowered...they couldn't see how love stepped forward 

and how honest they stood still

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Media-Scope Perspective

Can't do private in public friend
See public issued your private and then
with settings aside, exposed silence you can't hide
when spotlights you step into are bright everywhere...just saying

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman

Humans Need Attention

Storytelling, live theater, real life reflected via fleshy-boned vessels with spirits, 

genetic memory, heart-humbled mostly, soul walking, purposely positioned 

to edu-tain, irritate, stir-up, trigger that very thing 

that makes us vulnerable when we want to be hard-core gangstas 

or confused when the stranger sitting near us in the cafe unloads a gesture of love, 

a formula defined as song or dance or poem or stare...

we're so uncomfortable that instead of waiting for intermission to make a camouflaged exit, 

we abruptly stand up, knocking over chairs that spill onto the stage, 

barely missing the already injured-one in our horizon-lined view 

and proceed in yelling, at the top of our lungs no less, FIRE, FIRE, FIRE 

while simultaneously hopping like a rabbit on one leg 

and throwing rose petals in the four corners of the room...accomplished mayhem...and curtain

by Shonnese C.L. Coleman