To Fleur De Sac Poem by RIC BASTASA

this is what i learned
from that struggle

i won because i fought
i did not beg

the old masters taught us well
no one gives you things inside
a silver platter

there are no clean hands anymore
neither is there a need to shed blood

you make me win because i deserve winning
you have been convinced

i know how it is not to bow
not to stoop

with dignity i demand what is due me
the years are on my side,

my solitude is my sole guide
into the place where i must wear my laurels.