Almond Eyes

I know I have this poem written by Gerard Yabut on my site, but I really like it. The author is Filipino, so you can already see why I like the poem. Here is my favorite part, sometimes exactly what goes through my mind [the boldings are mine]:

"And you know
I hear you hate on our knowledge
But check -
Not every Asian
Does well in college.
I did.
But that’s because I actually opened my books
And was overzealous in class
So don’t be jealous
Because you’re an indolent (ass).

And here’s another
You say we can’t drive
Because we have slits for an eye.
I feel bad for you
Because you’re an imbecile guy.
Cause contrary to popular belief.
My vision is keen
My Optometrist
Told me 20/15.

And for the pseudo-bilingual people who think they’re so clever
Who attempt to speak a language they failed to endeavor
I know you might find this extremely absurd
But I looked it up
And Ching Chong-
Not a word.

What else
O yeah
You think that we’re passive
But that’s a big generalization for a population so massive.
Because if YOU.
Insult ME.
I will fight you
And I know that you’re scared
Cause I
Might
Know
Kung- FU.

But honestly I’d rather verbally bruise you.

Because
Through my almond eyes
I bet I can guess what you see.
Bruce Lee, Charlie, Jet Li
For-tune
Cook –
(E)
See.

But wait here’s the one I can’t stand
Not every Asian person is Chinese man.

Cause I’m Filipino
And I’m proud of that fact
But please don’t assume that I think I’m black.

Cause through my almond eyes
I see you still don’t empathize with me.
So instead of using stereotypes
Let me help you conceptualize
My reality."

The whole poem: click here