I Am Different Yet Just The Same
I was different yet just the same
But I was hunted down like game
I stood out like an ant in a sugar bowl
But hoped no-one would notice me at all
I smiled at everyone who came near
But all I could feel was their inner fear
I faced each day with impending dread
Was this the day I would be dead?
Each night I was tired with exhaustion
From looking over my shoulder with caution
My parents would warn me to be careful
“Don’t try to think you can beat the devil”
I was different yet just the same
My white haters could never be tame
It goes back to so long ago
When plantation masters ran the show
At first they broke my body down
My face portrayed a defeated frown
'Twas not 'til they stole my soul away
That the blues came into my heart to stay
The farm dogs were always well fed and bold
Whilst I was born to be bought and sold
Destined to labour for those without heart
A slave to white masters wrong from the start
I dream my children grow to live better days
Tho' my memory of hardship may never fade
The feet of men and women of darker shade
Will one day march in a victorious parade.
I AM different yet just the same....
© Copyright Maria D'Alessandro 2012. All Rights Reserved.