I am the disconnect between my people. 

In between the guterral words spoken from the chest

and articulations that are outlined by exaggerated hands. 

is where my voice is trapped.

I am the Filipina 

whose love for eating with her hands will prevent her from ever finding

a white man for a husband

a roommate without discriminating disdain

a place in American society

or so they tell her.

I am the pioneer of a land already discovered

and with me I bring the wisdom and bitter humour of my people.