big, kinky, messy locs
it’s a shame some people hate to see you
decked out in pink bows and sequined headbands
you are pampered with lavender, almond, coconut oils
lavished in water
dipped in butters from Morocco
conditioned with caster cream
your curls elongate to unforgettable length
tangled twists hold traditions of ancient African tribes
roots saturated in liberation
nappy and knotted tips of unruly protest
you grace the best of us
and distinguish the better of us
the beloved of every naturalista’s hair styles
you became beautiful when black was born