My First Rejection

By Jayli Milan Christopher

My first rejection was serendipitous. While a relationship seemed appropriate at the time, the universe didn’t agree. I devoted my time to writing and painting many works. I thank that event for giving me the precious time to make history.

My first rejection
Upon reflection
a deflection
An interaction of which he probably has no recollection 
Something that I loathed with the greatest conviction
It irked my very soul
Explained but still inexplicable
My anger lit more of a passion in me than the prospect of I and he

My first rejection
Made me look at my reflection 
I saw nothing but perfection
I still don’t understand

I am grateful for the graceful bow 
Teenagers. Boys.
I’m sure he was just cowed

Curtain call
Roll call
I’ll find a new male lead
Someone to fill the role until I reach the Apollo
A new script for a new age
My rejection, fodder, fuel for the engine of my brain 
Spurring me to write a new page
He simply wasn’t for this stage

I now have very little recollection
My lack of recall, a reflection of our petty connection 
Alas, no summer flirtation,
Yet still, I’m glad
What wasn’t meant to be never came to fruition,
My first Rejection