We speak in tongues, we speak in dialects, and we speak different languages in different cultures, all while living in the same country, under the same Flag.

The sommon language for all, though, should be one of decency and respect for your fellow man.  It should be the language of civility. It should be one where you pay attention to what he has to say, listen carefully, but then, that you too can express your feelings and he, as well, will listen attentively.

THE WORDS BELOW WERE WRITTEN

BY NIKKI GIOVANNI, A BLACK WOMAN

by Nikki Giovanni

i be white

when I be born

it be de day of

de unicorn

i be pee

on de blonde head  

black or white

we soon be dead

i be see

de e ffi gy

i be small

u be bigger

but i never pull

de trigger

i be white

u be black but

i never walk on

de railroad track

u be sail

de outrigger

n' i be your best

white sail- rigger

i be sing

all de day

u be happy

i be gay