for all the migrants, immigrants and refugees suffering from the border installations within the United States, at the border crossing and throughout Latin America.

for a borderless society and world, made of relentless unity and kindness and giving.

for Margarita de Las Flores, the seer, love.

for Mama Lucha and Papa Felipe, pioneers, givers of life.

for my children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

for all my familias in California, Oregon, New Mexico, Arizona, and New York.

for my agent, Kendra Marcus, and my editor and publisher, Elaine Katzenberger at City Lights, San Francisco. Countless gracias.

for all my friends, bards and artists, teachers and professors, editors and publishers, for the many gifts you offered.

for my dear companions at the Library of Congress, the Poetry and Literature Center, and all who greeted me and guided me while I was Poet Laureate of the United States. Warm-hearted appreciations for Dr. James Billington, Head Librarian of Congress, for inviting me to be the Laureate, and for director, Rob Casper and the Poetry staff for their friendship and for mapping the journey.

And once again, many bows to all the beautiful students and schools that opened their doors and hearts.