We linger on either side
Dancing between invisible borders
Split in two
The English me
At work
Speaks formally, taking time to enunciate and think ahead
Choosing my vocabulary carefully
So as not to Stumble and fall
The Spanish me
At functions
Takes care to speak eloquently
Proving myself as not just
Getting by
Hiding
Hoping they don’t ask
Where is your accent from?
The English me
With friends
Is casual, relaxed and at ease
Sassy, funny and bold
The Spanish me
With my sisters
Bursts forth
Words spilling over each other
Hanging in the air
Like bright decorations
Warming my soul
I am me
I am Susana
Fitting in nicely
We waltz between borders
Stepping gingerly
Lingering long enough to feel like we belong
Stepping gingerly
Before we’re caught
Susana Benavidez 