I started 2016 like every other year

Like a sigh of relief at dawn

when you see the new days sun rising 

I found confidence this year

I found motivation for life through God

I realized the value of my friends 

of having a good support system

In June I found solace in accomplishments 

of not causing harm to myself for a whole year

I grew in friendships 

In April I left the country for the first time 

I saw the world with new eyes

suddenly my horizons expanded farther than I ever could’ve imagined 

I decided a large part of my future this year

I decided that moving 500 miles away from home 

was what God was telling me to do

middle school me would cry tears of joy 

present day me is just scared. 

 

In 2016 I learned being myself is okay 

I have a garden inside me that is unlike any other 

so why would I not grant free admission to those who appreciate 

the naturally occurring art of God’s nature

in 2016 

I learned to trust God-

Not just say that I do

I learned that no one is held by the binds of age 

or gender 

or sexuality 

I learned that there is nothing more important than 

standing up for what you believe in.

 

In 2016 

I cried in front of my tv 

as my nations future was decided in front of me

I cried tears of pain for all who do not conform

to the hypocrisy of this nation. 

I left 2016

Crying tears of determination

lifting war cries for humanity out of silence

Shouting above the violence

that we have to stand up for what we believe in

Stand up for what is right. 

stand side by side 

together for 

equality. 

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We will not give up this fight.