after Lucille Clifton

I wish them disdain

I wish them questions

in a new town

that does not speak their language

I wish them to lose

their beloved stuffed bear

because the dogs can smell

the Rio Grande

Later let them learn humility

as the man’s arrogance

drips condescension

like venom

Let them think they don’t belong

Let them be turned away

(July 11, 2018)