PAINFUL FAMILY BOND 😔

My brother and I, close as can be, We are together, fused as one. Those days when family was complete, you see, With mommy and daddy, our journey begun. Yet we were weak, maybe still now, For daddy became distance, then mommy too. We became alone, forced to battle and vow, Struggling in life, Aaron beside us, true. And then me, your best and only brother, I followed your lead, step by step. Sorry for the mischief, for the bother, Begging you to take blame, to intercept. In those days, I caused trouble and strife, But you took the beatings, protecting my life. Our identity, culture, in every word, We echo Elizabeth Acevedo's grace. From our Dominican American heritage, stirred, Our personal experiences, a sacred space. Through the power of rhythmic verse, We explore the intertwined themes we face. Injustice, discrimination, we immerse, Using performance poetry's embrace. Equal words per line, a strong foundation, Symbolic of the unity we strive to find. A sonnet structure, drawing inspiration, From Acevedo's craft, leaving no theme behind. My brother and I, inseparable force, Bound by blood, by love, by choice. No matter life's battle, its twisting course, Together we stand, united with one voice.