It’s more than a symbol

of African diaspora,
of togetherness, of prosperity—

more than your favorite
dish, laid out with saltfish—

more than the tree
at the center of the property

across a sea, between walls,
in the Zion your mother was

given—where we taught
children from within

& without; it’s knowing
not only it is so vital

a part of you, of your home,
of your heritage, but also

a lesson that sums up our lesson
of 20 add months:  It is only

edible when it is ripe,
perfection splitting open

on its own & not a moment
too soon; if it is forced it releases

toxin. 
             It is you.  It is us.
             It is all of this–

black seeds of wisdom & patience
& knowing what is right

is only right when it is
timing & the story that

was always
His to tell.