once becoming undocumented
after losing my wallet & passport
either to forgetfulness
or a pickpocket
I’ve suddenly become
undocumented
but I was born here I say
I just don’t remember
coming out of
my mother’s womb
—that this place is all I know
but now that I find myself
undocumented
I simply don’t know anymore
I don’t give them permission
to go through my phone
but they do it anyway
surprised to see I’ve
got three virtual credit cards
and money in the bank
you can’t stay here they say
turn around & put
your hands behind your back
what are you doing I say
this is where I belong
please don’t take me away
you’re undocumented
they go on to say
there’s nothing else we can do
april two thousand twenty-five
copyright j matthew waters
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