A Lost Identity
By Madie Lee

Who am I?
I am judged by many,
But seen by few.
I swim boldly in an ocean
Of cultural dominance,
Though my scales are painted
Differently.
Who am I?
I am a mighty oak tree,
Planting my roots down firmly,
Making my own decisions,
And choosing my own paths.
Who am I?
I am a single thread
In America’s illustrious tapestry,
Adding to the brilliance,
But never noticed.
Who am I?
I am a bird,
Who enjoys
The sky of dreams,
But knows that reality
Is waiting.
Who am I?
I am a robot,
A flawless machine
Who obeys orders
And lives up to expectations.
Who am I?
I am an open book,
Ready to receive brand
New information,
And a brand new ending.
Who am I?
I am an ant,
One who works hard
For the sake
Of the growing community,
Though taken for granted,
And never fully appreciated.
Who am I?
I am a table,
Nothing without
My sturdy legs,
My family and my friends.
Who am I?
I am a key,
Ready to unlock
The unknown secrets
Of this world,
But afraid I might go
Prematurely rusty.
Who am I?
I am a teenager,
One who has seen
This harsh world,
And has forgiven,
But will never forget.
Who am I?
I am a victim of inevitable,
Stereotypical racism.