I am an American descended from slaves.

With shovel in hand I move historic snow.

With each lift I remember every slave who died -- shovel in hand.

My back is strong.

I have no master.

In the cold I feel my freedom.

I keep my footing.

I know how to work.

I help my neighbor.

My neighbor helps me, Doing what needs doing.

We overcome this way:

Work

Help

Strength

TRACEY L. DIXON WILLIAMSON, Bloomington