Roots & Hope

Breonna knew about Monday mornings

and weekends never long enough.

Breonna stood on cold tiled floors

to wash her face in bathroom mirrors.

Breonna bore Black skin

and a Black smile 

that shone on her proudest days.

Breonna was hopeful

to heal and love and connect

for a living.  

Breonna was the name

she signed on papers and credit cards,

and attached to her voice 

for introductions.

Breonna had a family.

She is their song.

Breonna was 26 and asleep

when the police broke

into her home,

stealing her life

but never her name.