There is a saying that goes, “the more things change, the more they stay the same.” I don’t know who penned it, but I’ve had over 50 years to recognize its truth. Even scripture speaks of the repetitiveness of the issues of life:
The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun.
Is it possible that man is doomed to look at history and make changes that never create real change? I think it’s a good question for those interested in giving it more than a cursory thought.
I wrote the below poem in my 20’s and published it in my book of poetry, Emotionally Charged: A Poetic Journey in the Issues of Life (Amazon, 2016). I think it’s worthy of sharing in our current climate. Enjoy.
![]()
America’s African Rainbow
I am a member of America’s African Rainbow
Let our history be a reminder for all to understand and know . . .
Don’t tell me to go back to Africa, a place I’ve never been.
For, I was stolen long ago from the womb of my ancestral kin.
Don’t treat me like an unwanted visitor; America is also my home.
Content in my promise land, the choice to leave was not my own.
For years you’ve given me many hurtful & derogatory names.
Why? When by default, your shoulders carry these shames.
I am an American African Rainbow; by your hand I’ve become.
Welcome my presence; help undo the wrongs that were done.
I’m a rainbow – intricately woven, polished – varieties of ebony.
Indeed, all must diligently labor to bring about true harmony.
The Issue (Food for Thought): Where color is an issue for some in this world, it has never been an issue with God for he created the colors of the rainbow.
*Use of this poem is prohibited without the express authorization of the author. All Rights Reserved. Printed in the U.S.A. First Edition: November 29, 2016. ISBN: 1530581583 – © 2020 Wanda J. Murry
Speak True Life 
Thinking on; each generation,when tiring of living under dire circumstances or conditions,demand a change.Change is brougth about for that generation,color is always the underlaying issue to the resistance of change.(Can the Ethiopian change his skin,Jer 13:23a) color is here to stay.Wanda,just March ON; BE Strong !!!!!!!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Yes … key word is continue … in the things learned; continue in the Word (I love 💕 your wonderful inclusion of scripture- Can the Ethiopian change his skin, or the leopard his spots?); and continue to do what I can to be a voice that creates a bridge, especially amongst God’s children. ❣️🙏
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wow Wanda! This poem speaks volumes and is so relevant for what’s happening now and what has always happened to black people in America. I felt your words and I’ve felt the experiences that led you to write them. I’ve been there too. We are not renting space. We live here and we belong here.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m so blessed for the multitude of ethnic groups I’ve had the joy of getting to know and develop mutual friendship & community with. The greatest danger for all groups of people is to pass judgment on the entire ethnic group because of derogatory teachings about, or negative encounters with a person(s) of a particular group and then label the ENTIRE GROUP! That’s the fallacy and danger in racism.
LikeLike
First of all, I thank you for your honest, hard-hitting, heart-felt–but not angry or bitter–poem. For years, I wanted to worship with fellow Bible lovers who had backgrounds divergent from my own. I thank God that He has now given me many sisters like that to enrich my life.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Amen 🙏 sister! When we are willing to be open and genuine without fear, there are amazing differences and similarities we come to appreciate about others.
LikeLiked by 1 person