Lustrous, long, flowing, deep brown waves, auburn
And amber streaks with tendrils, winding loops
Reaching toward the sun, falling to earth
And, everywhere, unruly, untamed

Out of the shower, cascading ringlets,
Waves down the back below the waist, like the
Raids waterfall, artfully crafted
Into a tight braid, snaking down the back

Stories of Native American and
Black boys, payot worn by Jewish boys, Sikhs
Discriminated against, expelled from
School because of their traditions, culture

Like Samson's hair or the lion's mane, my
Strength, identity entwined in my crown.