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Writer's pictureThe Magnolia Literacy Project

Lana Brown “A Rare Jewel”

Updated: May 24, 2022

Magnolia Literacy Project Spotlight: Lana Brown Series

Happy Women’s History Month! The impact of women in every space of life should never be underestimated. Within families and communities, across cities and states, from countries to continents, women have historically shaped the world. Lana Brown, a poet from Natchez, Mississippi, honors the life and legacy of her Aunt Vera "Jewel" Wilkins, who recently passed away at the age of 93. The foundation she built continues to sustain multiple generations of family, including Brown.

Brown is a graduate of Alcorn State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in English Communications; a Master of Arts in Secondary English Education; and a Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education with a Concentration in Reading and Gifted Education. She also holds a Specialist in Education degree in Psychometry from Jackson State University. An instructor in gifted education with the Natchez Adams School District, Brown was selected by the Mississippi Department of Education to be a member of the ELA/Literacy High Quality Instructional Materials (HQIM) Review Team in the fall of 2020.


“A Rare Jewel”


Gently placed over nine decades ago,

With the utmost care

For there will never be another

By a Father who cherished her

A humble spirit

Never complaining

Not easily ruffled

Easy going

Would never, ever be on a debate team

The Peace AFTER the storm

The Mediator

Never doing corners,

Just staying in the middle, consistently

For LOVE can’t be divided

It overflows

Into every being that it touches

All having a special place in her heart

Uniquely irreplaceable

Understanding her assignment, even as a young Mother

So many pieces of the pie

Choosing one over another is emotional suicide

Birthing a family, disconnected

Not a good game plan

Yet, she came in peace

Spreading her commitment and devotion indiscriminately

For she is a flower with many seeds

That must grow

So, she waters them

She prunes them when they go astray

She sheds light when their paths are dark

Staying calm in the eye of the storm

For, she is the root

The origin

A Jewel


(In memory of my beautiful Aunt Vera, who is now celebrating a new birthday in a different realm. I will miss you!)

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1 Comment


LaWanda Black
LaWanda Black
Mar 08, 2022

Lana Brown, this poem took me on a stroll down memory lane. Although I didn't know your Aunt Vera, I can relate to her. In honoring her, you made me feel like you were telling my Auntie Louvenia's story. She passed away last November, and she was every bit of the description you gave about your aunt. You are such a purposeful writer, and your work inspires me.

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