If I rise up as many times, and always once more,

Than I fall under life’s dizzying battles;

If I am able to smile in parallel measure,

In the sun, wind or thunderous rain;

If I can temper my folly with quiet wisdom,

And likewise, my old spirit with zest for life’s engagement;

If I can recognise love in its ugliest of disguises,

And find the beauty in all imperfection;

If I can see my place in the cosmos as the speck that it is,

And yet be emboldened to action,

Knowing this speck may define generations;

If I am unrepentant in my refusal,

To define my worth by earthly denominators;

If I am content in my tarnished, weathered skin,

As much amongst princes as with paupers;

If I feel entirely like the queen that I am,

Graced with a crown of a carat that blinds the darkest hour,

With its unending light of hope, love and dignity;

Then… I have only you to blame, Father,

And you to thank, eternally.

FADEKEMI OLUMIDE-ALUKO