Ode to my Hair

Thick-skinned and unruly, oh, you are the epitome of a daughter.
Break down your well-crafted follicle walls and let me nest
on the head built from the chemicals of Westerner's breath.
Dress yourself in a golden coat over your natural red gown.
Frizz and shed the split ends that might anchor and drown.
Oh, how you bear the heaviest weight of all: my emotions.
The heaviness of my depression has troubled your condition.
You ask me for graciousness and at last to be cleansed.
I put you down for now: a dog waiting for the pain to end.
I know you will come back: a patch of ferns after snow slumber.
I know you will come back: a student home for her first summer.
Thick-skinned and unruly, oh, you are your mother’s daughter.