Coonass

Hanging out in Pride, Louisiana
Just outside of Baton Rouge
An Easter family get together
A dozen or so
Self proclaimed "Coonasses"

Wiki says Coonasses are people
Of cajun ethnicity
Some consider it an insult
Others consider it a badge of honor

I am thinking it is a fundamental part
Of the charm of being in Louisiana

A prayer
Then a delicious barbecue,
Then a delicious desert
Then a congregation outside

A time for family talk
A time for questions aimed
At making this Yankee guest
Feel at home

Invited as an outsider
Treated like an insider
I am at once a visitor
I am at once at home

Some wine
A stogie
Some damn fine
Southern hospitality

An Easter to remember