Coco Leche
(Inspired by The House on Mango Street)
Osama Jeffery
Every night next to the fire my father used to tell me things,
Things meant to frighten,
Things that cease the birds’ singing.
Stories of savages leaving their outskirts.
I listened and I learned.
A driving force.
All my life my brothers were the definition of success.
I wanted to be angry at him,
But instead I listened
And I learned.
He left me at the church when I was 3.
My real father destroyed my dreams for me.
My new father trained me day and night
He cut me free, and I drifted away like a kite.
I was hurt with listening,
But I learned.
When I performed on stage I gave it my might,
And I stood Number 1 much to my delight.
They both came.
My new father saw my grace,
But he only saw the medal before my face.
His eyes, filled with love, drained their hate.
I went home and threw out the medal.
I only had one real home.
And one real father.