Unconditional Poem by Mara Manzano

It wasn’t that easy, because I was the first
I was that newborn baby, crying due to thirst
They gave me the name my friends call me today
Ever since then, I promised not to bring them any dismay

Her eyes were so bright as she cuddled me
I was in my crib and I could tell she’s very happy
He taught me how to walk and carried me on his shoulder
He wrapped me in a soft cloth when the night got colder

I was on sixth grade then when I became insanely insecure
I cry because of my curly hair, unattractive skin and hideous figure
But she said I was lovely and for her I’m the prettiest
How come she says things that makes me feel I’m the best

My teenage years were certainly rough and tough
I transferred schools almost every three years, I’ve had enough
I got upset, I missed my friends, I just linger
Then came him, cheering us up with tickets to the theater

I turned eighteen and he told me I’m no longer a baby
He said he was proud that I became more of what he wanted me to be
He wished me luck in all the decisions I’m about to make
Gave me an assurance that he will stick around in case I’ll break

I graduated from college at twenty years old
She’s not crying but I could feel she wanted to, she just didn’t show
She fixed my hair, helped me with my make up and kissed me tenderly
She hugged me tight, I could feel her love so dearly

A year later, here I am. Taking my chance and writing this poem
Because I’m so grateful, for her and him, they’ve made me strong
Thank you so much God for my mother and father
Life, as simple as it may be, is nothing but perfect. And I couldn’t ask for any better.