I was told that I love

with lollipops and rainbows,

the rain bows to the innocence

of my inner child.

Bestowed with the anointment

of Yemaya and Oshun.

There’s freedom

at the feet of these oceans

that carry unconditional love

in the hands of my soul.

My ancestors feed

traditions and tribulations

on the plate

of these oceans

that dine wares of Earth—

waves lightly stirring cool aid

for refreshment

of my chakras.

So, they proceed to bless the bottle—

fulfillment from my grandfather’s

preferred bourbon

spills from the overflow in my glass.

YOU MUST NOT DROWN.

When love washes over you,

YOU MUST NOT DROWN.

Comfort attached to my knees,

codependent on my uncertainties.

I’d initiate the troubled risk

to test the water

if I had courage to

remain consistent

and become confident—

I would’ve grasped skill to swim.

I could barely hold my breath

while love miraculously floated over him.

My inner child eagerly plunged,

explorative

so she could comprehend

and envision unity,

instead of

abandonment and attachment.

Identify with and relate to

affection and admiration,

not misconduct and manipulation

Provide and receive

accolades and appreciation,

without erasure and exploitation.

With him she

had faith she could learn to swim.

My ancestors nourished this intention

and encouraged the retention

because they knew

when love washes over you,

YOU MUST NOT DROWN.