Tell Them

by Jeannie E. Roberts

you’re not defined by their beliefs labels perceptions fears

your birthplace appearance education careers your manner

upbringing marriages degrees the community you live in

what they told you to be their thoughts judgments opinions

views their discomfort displeasure uneasiness with you

their response to your being your effervescence for life

their efforts to boycott trample raise strife tell them you’re

kind worthy deserving strong generous gracious inclusive

belong here to thrive flourish withstand the stampede

tell them you matter you matter to me

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Jeannie E. Roberts has authored six books, including The Wingspan of Things, a poetry chapbook (Dancing Girl Press, 2017), Romp and Ceremony, a full-length poetry collection (Finishing Line Press, 2017), Beyond Bulrush, a full-length poetry collection (Lit Fest Press, 2015), and Nature of it All, a poetry chapbook (Finishing Line Press, 2013). Her second children's book, Rhyme the Roost! A Collection of Poems and Paintings for Children, was recently released by Daffydowndilly Press, an imprint of Kelsay Books, 2019. She is Poetry Editor of the online literary magazine Halfway Down the Stairs. When she’s not writing or editing, you can find her drawing and painting, or outdoors photographing her natural surroundings.