The Struggle (A Poem for Mannie)

Hello. My name is Franklin McPherson, age 39, I have been incarcerated since age 20 and I am currently serving my 19th year out of a 25-years-to-life sentence at Shawangunk Correctional Facility. I write this letter to all the women in Bedford Hills Correctional Facility, on behalf of New York State male correctional facilities. I heard that you lost a good sister, a good friend and to some a mentor, Mannie Morgado. Our Deepest condolences go out to you strong women, family and loved ones. Today  I am writing a poem dedicated to Mannie Morgado to help our sisters at Bedford Hills C.F. to get through their pain.

A few days ago Mannie Morgado passed away at 

Bedford Correctional Facility. The struggle is so real

Our women at Bedford couldn't think and

Weren't sure how to feel.

Their mind would race faster than their 

Heart would beat.

What to do, our STRONG women are so confused.

They're probably locked in their cell,

With no place to go.

They probably should eat,

But their stomach won't let them.

Their mind says do something active.

Their body says chill.

The only thing your brother's could tell you

From behind these walls

Is Mannies' spirit still comforts y'all

Console y'all, and know that her spirit still

Lives in each one of you.

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