When I look into your papi chulo eyes
I see happiness and joy
the Christ-child con los tres reyes magos
& bags full of toys
for the first time noticing
the beauty of brightly lit bodegas
against cobalt skies
the subway smiles of homeless mothers
watching two men kiss quick secret good-byes
walking away from each other
banjee boys on their way home
forbidden love glistening in their souls
like the melted candles and whispered prayers
from altars glowing late at night
in the barrios of a sleepless city
-still prejudiced and cold
(to be continued...)
I will be using more of Papi Chulo by the talented, out-and-proud "Nuyorican" poet Emanuel Xavier (pictured below) for future posts, but go HERE to read the entire work if you can't wait. You can also check out Xavier's official website HERE.
