This year, Carlene and I have made it a resolution to begin opening up. I’m passionate about these pieces because they show our struggle asking for help, and how just a little effort can go a long way.
Opening Up
Reflective
The Infamous Catcall
This piece is a revolution. Living it and writing it changed me as a woman, and hopefully once you read it, you will be inspired to start your own revolution with me.
Nappy
This poem is me taking back the word “nappy” to make it beautiful.
Fighting Back Against My Culture by Reclaiming My Curls
Going natural has taught me a good lesson about loving myself, especially the parts of myself I cannot change.
A Time to Heal
Anything can happen when I am holding the pen.
Letter to Younger Me
Hello! How’s your life in China? I hope you don’t throw this letter away once you see it’s in English…
Butterfly Wings
I have always been fascinated with butterflies: their ephemeral incandescence and natural metamorphosis astounds me. Across cultures and regions, butterflies are symbols of hope and change. In New York City, there are few butterflies of the sort captured by glossy magazines, but the many revolutions emblazoned across monochromatic newsprint serve in their stead.
Life in Odd Numbers
A life retold in numbers
Black Cherry Soda
It’s 2:45 PM and I have to meet Brooke at 3 PM.
The Feminist in Me
I was a feminist long before I knew what the word meant.
Happiness in Compensations
The day I see this, I will have achieved my happiness.
This Is My Dwelling
Repetition numbs. Or at least, it’s supposed to.
Dear Kanye
Dear Kanye, nine days ago I called financial offices of the colleges I applied to. Told them I had to submit my FAFSA without parental information….
Pelo Malo
Smoke rises, hot metal searing each rebellious strand.
A Slight Misunderstanding
I wasn’t doing anything out of the ordinary. I was just being Joy, being ten at a restaurant and heading to the bathroom.