Blame: Call Me By My Name Poem by D Loveday Morris

BLAME: Call Me By My Name

I received a letter one day that brought tears to my eyes
And I just couldn't figure out why
It was the very first time, in that way I had been addressed and I felt quite distressed
And although in this life I've passed so many test and qualified up to postgraduate level
It made me feel for the first time the play field wasn't quite level

Now, I realise it might not have been intended
And since we are in a world very blended
With no pun intended
It may be necessary that you teach me what's right for youand I teach you what's right for me
And out of goodly fear and respect I will forgive you when you forget
Especially since you've made it clear you are very sorry

You see, I'm from a country where we are all simply Jamaicans
And even for those who are financiallyvery poor;
There is a strong belief that education, manners and respect opens many doors
And even if we are ill
We do believe we have the will
To be whatever and whomever still
And that's why when we do anything only the best is good enough
We are up for a challenge no matter how #tuff

So now I've taken a stance
That if unsure; just take your chance
Call me by the name I gave you
Fortunately for you, I have more than two
Or if you forget, dont worry or fret
Don't address me by the colour of my skin; Call me Love, Loi; Dee; Dahlia; Mi Sistren; call me how you would like to be called
Or Just call me human

D. Loveday Morris

An Extract From the Diary of a Jamaican Critical Care Nurse Living and working in the UK

#CallMeByMyName