Everyone knows pain. We are not meant to carry it forever. We were never meant to hold it so closely, so be certain in the belief that what pain belongs to now will belong soon to then. That when someone asks you how was your day, realize that for some of us - it's the only way we know how to say, be calm. Loosen your grip, opening each palm, slowly now - let go.

Look directly into every mirror. Realize our reflection is the first sentence to a story, and our story starts: We were here.

We grew up learning to cheer on the underdog because we see ourselves in them.

I sit before flowers 
hoping they will train me in the art 
of opening up

If your heart is broken, make art with the pieces.

My heart is a protest that I let rally against my ribs.

You, me, this city, this country, we will always have a choice.When you stand up to be counted, tell the world, THIS IS MY VOICE. There are many like it, but this one is mine.