Papi Chulo Part I - by Emanuel Xavier

When I look into your papi chulo eyes

I see happiness and joy

the Christ-child con los tres reyes magos

& bags full of toys

for the first time noticing

the beauty of brightly lit bodegas

against cobalt skies

the subway smiles of homeless mothers

watching two men kiss quick secret good-byes

walking away from each other

banjee boys on their way home

forbidden love glistening in their souls

like the melted candles and whispered prayers

from altars glowing late at night

in the barrios of a sleepless city

-still prejudiced and cold

(to be continued...)

I will be using more of Papi Chulo by the talented, out-and-proud "Nuyorican" poet Emanuel Xavier (pictured below) for future posts, but go HERE to read the entire work if you can't wait.  You can also check out Xavier's official website HERE.