On This Same Path Alone Poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar

For many years I have walked by myself,
On this same path alone.
Long before your birth.
Or your first steps taken to you were known.

I've absorbed criticisms about what I've done.
And ostracized because my beliefs,
Were not accepted by many.
And quite foreign to some.

I've been accused of not being black enough.
By those who now sip cocktails with whites.
I dare to be who I am at all times...
Around those without identities!
And when I am near they become uptight.

But they claim to be who they are...
Whenever they have that as an appetite!
You know the ones?
Those who pass their judgements,
On everyone!

And those who approach,
As if what I do they can do much better.
Not knowing my disposition,
Has been honed by stormy weather.
I do not argue.
But instead I am quite entertained.

Since I know these folks would run to seek shelter...
At the hint of a cloud.
Or the aspects of falling rain!
And I make no claims of not having competition.
I just live my life...
Comprehending I have none!