Behind The Mask! ! Poem by Crystal Tutson

I am the definition of black and strong;
The underlying force of how to move on.

When my enemies try to make a feast of faults,
On bending I fall and their laughs instantly halt.

You cannot destroy me because my back was meant to bend.
I wont be a slave of the useless mentality now or then.

Who am I many people seem to ask?
Who is the elated woman behind the mask?

Who smiles when things are often broken and distorted?
Reframes from foolishness; Operations aborted.

Cruises in the lane of happiness and joy;
Elevating my head above resenting coy.

Who am I people seem to ask me?
A strong black woman jubilated and free.

To be who I want to be on this rigorous and unstable walk.
Capturing the minds of many with my flamboyant style of talk.

I'm blessed and favored highly by God above,
So much so He deluges me with His love.

Who am I some continue to ask?
A mother; a solider; a timid girl behind the mask.