For this month’s column, instead of me talking about historical events, I decided to share the poem I was assigned to write for my English class. I hope you enjoy it.
I carry a sagging black Jansport bag
Which holds all my school books
I carry a never ending weight of procrastination which leads me to stress out about all of the work in that bag
I carry a butterfly necklace around my neck
My hand constantly tugs at it
Because to me tugging at that is better than the thoughts constantly tugging at my mind
I carry a never ending OCD train of thought
No matter where I am the train keeps on chugging
Even if I want it to come to a halt
It won’t nor will it ever
I carry hair ties around my wrist that I lend to my friends in gym class
I carry my therapeutic benefits I assist to them when in need
I carry my Vestal Voices folder in my hands 4th period
The placidity of singing to me is like no other
I carry my voice
Musically and personally
When I can’t carry that I begin to carry the things I wish I could or could’ve said
I carry all of these things that all sum up to create something messy yet beautiful
That creation is me
I carry the acceptance that I’m me
Myself and I will ride on that never ending OCD train of thought side by side
I carry that fact that I know everything will be okay
Because I have me
I wanted to share this poem as a reminder to whomever reads this that you’re not alone. The feelings, thoughts, and emotions that you have are valid. Never let anybody invalidate them. Never let anyone silence your voice.
