In a manner of speaking

When of a sudden I forgot how to
Form a sentence or express my
Thoughts in the language of my
Birth, I felt like the chameleon 
On my great aunt's wall. I had a
New life and a language that 
Consumed me; I had changed. 
I had the words I needed to not
Just fit in but those I use to blend.
Like that small lizard, I blushed
To match the scenery. I took on
The sounds of my adopted place. 
My colors were the broad A's of 
Queens. Translations sat on the 
Tip of my tongue waiting. They 
Would not or could not slide off 
In order to enter the conversation.