Remember when we met on
in February 1960. You were standing there waiting
for me at the Woolworth
in Greensboro, North Carolina.
All I wanted
was to get was what I ordered
but they refused to serve me
cause of who I am.
You disagreed with them
and you stood by my side
until I received my order.

Remember when that old white lady
gave me what I thought
was a suspicious look.
Then she came over
and said she was proud
of me and I should’ve ordered
ten years sooner.
Again you should never let the cover
define the book.

Remember when you always saved me seats
for me and my other friends. You stood
with us as we waited for our order. You
were always open to meet more and
more of my friends.

Remember when those people
didn’t approve of our order
and they covered us in food. I wanted to quit
but you let me lean on you,
and you reminded me I am not
Leaving until I got my order.

Remember when the cameras came
and others started making friends with others like you
in Richmond and Nashville too.
They waited for their orders
just like me and you.

Remember when
I finally got my order.

Thank you again
for being my friend,
Lunch Counter.