Author Kuukua Yomekpe #52essays, creative non-fiction, writing prompt

Emerge

The people came out. One by one, each bringing a bowl, a basket, a tray, a kitchen towel concealing a baguette. She had put a long table and two lawn chairs out for her and her partner. It had been 6 months of social distancing and the isolation was maddening enough that they had thrown … Continue reading Emerge

Author Kuukua Yomekpe reflections

#52essays: Manifest (Black) Destiny!

I accepted a position at a college in another remote location. My 5th move to a small white village/town. My cousin says, "as for you, you love you some white people or maybe it's the cold..." I don't answer her with much because I can't really defend myself. All my adult life I've never been … Continue reading #52essays: Manifest (Black) Destiny!

Author Kuukua Yomekpe reflections

SKIN

You ask me to sit awhile with you. Instead I open your windows; talk about the rustling plantain trees; about doing your laundry; ask what you would like to eat for dinner. All the while standing.  I don’t know how to visit with you. I sat rubbing your legs that one evening when you had that severe gas bubble … Continue reading SKIN

Author Kuukua Yomekpe #52essays, Love, reflections, Sexuality

Beautiful Ebony Queen

Beautiful Ebony Queen, with eyes bright and skin shea-butter soft.What have you done to me?I am taking you in with every breath    and I don’t want to exhale.You take my breath while you give me fresh air.    Breathe for me.I call upon the ancestors,    the Queenly Mothers from a long line of Feminine Royalty.Hear me.Hear us.As we go … Continue reading Beautiful Ebony Queen

Author Kuukua Yomekpe reflections

The Curious Case Of Lack

I operate from a place of lack. I said that a couple weeks ago but I didn't develop the thought. I think articulating it to myself the first time it popped out of my mouth surprised me. I operate from a place of lack. There! I said it! Now it doesn't seem to control me. … Continue reading The Curious Case Of Lack