When La Cegua Gives You Dating Advice

You take it because she is your mother.

Today you won't be throwing mustard seeds

to drive her away; you know another

mixed blood traitor isn't what the world needs,

more Mocuanas, Malinches, Lloronas.

You’re the only one who can see behind

her mask. Speak with plantain leaves crowning

your teeth & make your own face with yucca,; you’ll find

emptiness, voice false like hers. It’s the deal

she makes daily: wear black and laugh loudly

and a woman can walk through walls, feel

for the best words to cut you, resounding—

She doesn’t share much, just lets you know

the only road you’re walking on niña, is back home.