Look Closer

Every Saturday,
My sister and I
rolled the ringer
washing machine
from the closet
to the kitchen,
where we washed
enough clothes
for 6 people.

We filled the tub once
and towards the last load
the water looked gray.
Our grandmother said,
"it's not dirty, it's deep.
Cup some water
into your hands.
Look closer."

One Roof

A house of women,
women
who worked
in factories,
cooked the meals,
cleaned their houses,
laughed
with their sisters,
played cards
on Saturday nights,
sent kids to church
on Sunday mornings.
Women,
who took care of their
daughter's daughters
under one roof.