Wednesday, October 12, 2005

Blue Collar

Here is a poem I wrote when I was in my late teens.

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When I was a little girl, one of the first things that ever caught my eye was the blouse with the plain blue collar. How I loved it so.

I liked having it near me, whether hanging in the closet, draped over my chair or in a heap on the floor. It was a security blanket, if you will.

As I grew, it was always there. It was vibrant and fun, comfortable and strong. No matter how often it had been through the wringer, it always came out in one piece. The makeup of its fabric was sturdy and strong. It was with me through illness and health, parties and special occasions. It was even there for my first job interview and silently cheering for me when I got the job.

When I was a young woman, my eyes were always open and looking for the blue collar. I saw others with blouses of similar fashion and they always turned my head. They were solid, looked good and were natural. They never tried to be something they were not. Some tried to dress up by using fancy beading and silk but none intrigued me as much as the plain blue collar.

I have passed many on the street, in fancy cars and living in spiffy homes. Some have been to Europe and the Caribbean, or have traveled the world, but mine has always stayed close to home, never straying very far from the neighborhood.

Many want the blouse with the plain blue collar but think that they will look better with a fancy collar adorned with silk or velvet, beads and lace. What it really comes down to is just a fancy cover up for the genuine article.

As for myself, I will always gravitate back to the weather beaten, old comfy blue collar that I know best, the one that has been on fishing trips, riding in pick up trucks and fixing old cars. The one that makes me feel pretty and loved and protected and grounded. The one that, when draped over my body, symbolizes childhood memories, great accomplishments and love.

Therefore, I will always be drawn to the blouse with the plain blue collar.

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Do you know what the blue collar represents?

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