Maritza Rivera
NAFTA
They still go missing
las mujeres de Juárez
in their factory smocks.
Copyright © 2011 by Maritza Rivera.
Mi Nombre es Amor
It's been so long
since I've heard my name
said the way it was intended.
With short round vowels
vocales full of sound
sonidos full of flavor
and r's that roll
some farther than others.
With solemn hellos
that ask for bendiciones
blessings from the elders;
the boisterous goodbyes
of too many children
primos, nietos and neighbors.
Our names play together
tell the story of our ancestors
identify their towns
villages and landmarks.
Maritza
Rivera
Rosario
Torres
Mendez
Sanchez
Ayala
Zayas
Cruz
My parents
grandparents
great-grandparents
Stopped at the checkpoint
where they ask my name.
Copyright © 2011 by Maritza Rivera.
Elsewhere
It's where neither here
nor there really matters and
no borders exist.
Copyright © 2011 by Maritza Rivera.
Mirrors
Shards of broken glass
remnants of a shattered life
crumble at my feet.
Copyright © 2011 by Maritza Rivera.
SOCKS
It takes time and thought
to select the perfect socks.
Feet won’t stand for less.
Copyright © 2011 by Maritza Rivera.
Facing Facts
I lay on my side of the bed
but you are not on yours
reading, sleeping, dreaming.
The warmth of you
that thawed my icy hands
and feet is gone.
We agree it is for the best.
I no longer inspire you;
you no longer make me laugh.
Copyright © 2011 by Maritza Rivera.
Biography:
Maritza Rivera is a Puerto Rican poet who has been writing poetry for over 30 years. She has read her work in poetry venues in the DC area, New York and Tucson. Her work has appeared in literary magazines, anthologies and online publications as well as on local radio stations and cable channels. She is the author of two poetry collections: About You (1998) and A Mother's War (2009) and is a contributor to Poets Responding to SB 1070.