“Skeleton” by Otis Hunter Jr.
I am the skeleton;
Fragile,
Frail,
Worthless.
I am not the heart that pumps blood through veins,
Or the brain that controls what I do,
Or the lungs that breathe fresh wind to the soul.
I am a lump of coal compared to diamonds,
But even coal has value.
I am the armor of the organs,
I am the support that carries out movement,
I am the framework of this carnal vessel.
I am the skeleton,
Never pick a bone with me because I have them all.