a three part walk

first

say, you’re not welcome here. this is not your home. this is not your land.

see, i watch with small brown eyes the looks you place upon my soft brown skin.

think, of all the ways you hurt me with ignorance

what does your bliss feel like?

second

say, hi.

place, small polite smile on my face.

walk, away

think, see the kid in my small arms?

leave him be.

kindness to him does not give you access to me.

say, i’m new here.

think, my smile is not an invitation.

think, you’re reading into it.

think, you’re trying to take advantage of my kindness.

think, you make me uncomfortable.

think, i miss knowing i could call someone to protect me.

think, i hate the way you look at me.

think, your audacity is disgusting.

think, i don’t want your attention.

think, please just leave me alone.

stomach churns.

The Vulture chews off pieces of me as i walk by.

i wonder how the crumbs of my soul taste as he rips it with vicious teeth.

third

mourn, youth.

the salt, placed upon me for my preservation

exist, moving through each day with the intention to dance through the innate heartache of life

but for now

hold, my juicy red heart and do my best to feel her hold me back

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Cover Photo by Andreea Ch.