i had my day

i used to be
beautiful, she says.
holding
a mirror
to her face.
not anymore. i
had my day.
i used to work
at the cosmetic
counter
at woodies
on F street
after ladybird
fixed it up
the block,
planted trees
and flowers,
but still no one
came.
and the riots
and burnings
ended all that
in 68. i used
to be beautiful
she says, and smiles.
i had my day. if
only you knew
me then.