Jaw-sore

A question–a quip
and laughter with clenching grips
and a flashback
to ignorance. Tears
and balled-up paper
over dark green plastic seats,
close enough
for the bus driver to see.
This is the order. The totem
planted plastic in a white man’s
front yard. This is your tell,
that you were birthed
upon your throne expecting
all to fall to knees like Good Wives.
Even when you kiss
and say Be Strong.
Be strong and know
you’ve got your man
to protect you.