Approval And Acceptance Poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar

I may look young.
And still in my 60s!
But I am not.
Patience and tolerance to have,
Coming as one ages is a myth.
Although I listen to pay attention more,
To those committed,
As if to pledge to be fools.
For their entire lives to live and assume,
Being duped and tricked,
Returns to them approval and acceptance.
That game I have never played.
From childhood I learned to be accountable.
And often held responsible for actions not mine.

These days no time do I waste or spend,
Pretending I have no idea what is going on.
I am a black man of African descent.
And proud to walk tall and say what I mean.
Done not to intend to offend anyone.
Or allow the respect I have for myself,
Diminish my dignity and identity,
For the purpose to validate...
Who it is I am to meet their qualifications.
I lived to know I am blessed.
Regardless of the obstacles and negativity,
That may come to test my awareness.