If I should find space in your memory
once the seconds have drained from my time

I pray I'm remembered just as I was
I hope I'm not placed too high

Not keen on leaving a saintly repute
even saints have sinned in their hearts

Don't think the bad or the good of me
Just keep them as fat as they are

Remember that I was giving--
but don't forget that my temper was hot

Remember I looked on the bright side--
but don't forget that at times I did not

Remember that often I shared myself
though just as often I'd hide

Do not remember the one soft way
when I've more than a few rough sides

Remember if I have bandaged your wounds
-- also, if I caused you to bleed

And If I harmed you, do not forget
but remember my apology, please

Remember that I wrote and fought for change
That I used my pen for a purpose

And that I spoke love over everyone
when others didn't think they deserved it

Please speak of me in words of real
Do not line them in platinum and gold

Although they may bore you a bit as is
at least, my truth has been told

Do not speak of my physical traits
The curl of my hair or my lips

Do not recall the deep brown of my eyes
Or the slight roundness of my hips

For those things will have changed with age,
With time, they will all be dust

Please don't remember the parts of me
that are shared 'tween many of us

Remember the unique cut of me
odd shape and jagged lines

Do not forget that although I failed much
Please do remember ...

I tried.