Nappy, Crunchy, Frizzy, Knots… Not good hair!

She has good hair! Mmmm Hmmm, they all agreed.

If hers is good, is mine bad?

Her silken plaits unravel as she runs away.

I feel my own course black hair. Locked tighter than a jewelry store.

Relaxer burns away my shame.

I find acceptance.

Until you.

“Mommy”, you said. I want hair like yours.

Each word causes your front tooth to wiggle.

Shame.

You are beautiful, princess!

I want to be pretty like you Mommy.

Shame again.

I hold you tight as you fall asleep.

The tears fall like rain.

I slowly rise, as not to wake you.

The buzzing clippers makes my hand tingle.

I am free.

You are free.

Beautiful, black, kinky curls begin to grow.

I am like you.

You are like me.

We are beautiful.

We are free.

Photo: Courtesy of Kim Jagwe, Author