My Tribute to United Progress

When I woke up this morning you were not in my bed.

When I woke up this morning my eyes were bloodshot red.

From drinking or crying

I do not know which.

Can’t figure out for the life of me

why you called me a bitch.

I know I’m not perfect but I’m not cruel or mean.

No angel yet but never perverse or obscene.

But I felt so disgusting

and ugly

and sad.

And I really wish you hadn’t said what you had

‘cause right now I’m hurting

and hurting real bad.

Was it something I said

or didn’t remember to say?

In this relationship journey have you lost your way?

Did my tenderness frighten you?

Should I have not bared my soul?

Are financial challenges mounting and taking their toll?

Do you want an excuse to start off a fight?

Is there an unsettling feeling that something’s not right?

I’ll pray the Most High to help us if you just show me how.

I can do whatever is needed if you talk to me now.

I will pull no punches—that’s no revelation.

Will not mince words given any situation.

For damned sure won’t let your attitude cause me frustration.

For I am a woman of worth.

A woman of substance.

A woman of class.

But ain’t that far from ghetto I won’t cut your punk ass

if you push me too far

or push me too long.

I will let you know that this Black Kween is strong.

I’m a swan when I’m sweet and a tiger when ticked.

Won’t have no regrets ‘cause it’s your fight you’ve picked.

I’m a Sistah but a Soldier.

A Woman and a Winner.

A conqueror at life

not some rank chick beginner.

Either you love me or you don’t.

Give me your respect or you won’t.

I do need to move forward not to dwell in the past.

I want our friendship to deepen,

our sex life to last.

Let’s get to the issues.

Let’s deal with the grit.

Let’s get downright and dirty and admit our own shit.

Oh, and I’ll expect an apology—oral or written

—it don’t matter which.

Don’t trip

‘cause swear I will slam you

if you ever call me a bitch.