A Voice from the Front of the Screen

They tried to place me
behind the screen
saying my ministrations
were wanted only for cleaning.
Today the Director told me
"please do not bump
the screen as you finish up
and do finish,
before the museum opens."
Indeed, I thought, indeed.
I am the flower of my culture
more so than
even the exalted artwork
of the screen.
After the Director
moved on,
just as the opening bell
sounded,
I placed myself, legs as stems
body at the base,
facing the incoming patrons,
as myself, a blooming flower
within the bunch of
blossoms at the bottom.

A Voice from the Front of the Screen

I am not at all the least of blooms
but I smile from the bottom
in a world turned upside down
where my people's ancient art
is valued but I am set aside.