The stars dimmed tonight,
A queen laid her pen down.
Nikki, the truth-teller, the soul-lifter,
Gone from this battleground.

She taught us how to love
In the midst of the fight,
How to find freedom
Even in the night.

Sister spoke fire,
Her words cut deep.
She gave voice to the voiceless,
Made the weary weep.

You ain’t gone, though, Nikki,
Nah, you live in the breeze,
In the laughter of children,
In the rustle of trees.

You live in the rhythm,
The beat of our hearts,
A warrior’s legacy,
A million fresh starts.

Rest now, my sister,
But your work ain’t through.
Your spirit’s eternal,
And we carry you.

…. For NIKKI GIOVANNI