I “came of age” during the Civil Rights Movement (yes, I’m that old!); as a result, Rosa Parks quickly became and remained one of my life-long heroes. My friend and acclaimed poet Doris Washington has written this lovely poem in Rosa’s honor/memory. Enjoy!

Riding The Bus

In fond memory of Rosa Parks

By Doris Washington

Many years have passed since then.

And we reflect when one

Was just riding the bus.

Going home from a long day’s work.

She was just riding the bus

On an ordinary day,

As she was asked to move from her seat,

Because of the color of her skin.

Many years have passed since then.

And we reflect of that one riding the bus.

She refused to give up her seat, and was arrested,

And taken to jail in a land where all are to be free.

Just riding the bus she was, just riding the bus.

Many years have passed since then.

When her arrest spurred cries

For freedom all over America’s soil.

A change was about to come,

For all of us to be free.

Many years have passed since then.

When the fight for her freedom

was the fight for everyone.

Because of her courage, her stand,

She made a difference for us all.

May we never forget the one who was

Just-

Riding the Bus!

Riding The Bus copyright © Doris Washington, February 2006. All rights reserved.