I am dark

not only because of the color of my skin,

but also because of those who view me with

suspicion,

who see me as a criminal.

Do not judge me

based on your misconceptions of my race

for I am gentle and loving.

Compassion seeps from every fiber of my existence.

Why does dark represent obscurity, menacing

shadows,

villainy?

In reality, beyond the skin that covers me,

I am a man of 

character,

intelligence,

warmth,

vulnerable to glaring untruths.