I am Desiree.

I am like a flower strongly rooted to the ground waiting to bloom in the heat of the morning sun

A caterpillar waiting to evolve, the sun waiting to rise again

I am a queen-- An Egyptian goddess awaiting my black sisters in this reckless society-- to bless this society

With the beauty of Nefertiti and the knowledge of Nefertari I am powerful

I am powerful for I know the possibilities of my own success

Like Nefertiti, I find my passion in religion

I am spiritual for I know that the Almighty holds the key to my happiness

I have made my decision

So who am I?

Am I a product of my parents' mistakes or am I better than that?

Am I a failure because I have let some trials overcome me?

I am so much greater

In the words of my brothers who have come before me “we shall overcome”

I am standing on the shoulders of my ancestors

I am following in the footsteps of those who stood against our oppressors

I am an individual who knows the potential I hold.

I am an individual who cares nothing about the negativity that is constantly being thrown my way.

I am individual who puts her effort and potential on display

I am a conqueror

I am a warrior

I will not be subjected and victimized to the dangers of this toxic environment

I will be the change that people preach about

I will be the one to make a difference

I am so much greater

The spark that ignited the flame, that’s what they’ll call me

I will take away the pain, the fear, the sadness

I am so much greater

I am eternally beautiful in my own way

I am blessed because I know that my flaws and differences make me unique

I am whoever I am when I am it-- learning that the love of God commands it

I am so much greater

I am me

I am Desiree