Why I Write

This is not a poem, it’s a reminder to myself and a statement of purpose

I write because of the exhaustion induced by suffering in silence

I write because suppression is no longer an option

I write because speech can be frightening, especially in my brown skin

I write because if I meet the demise of Trayvon, Freddie, Philando, or Sandra, I want undeniable evidence that I am not who the media will make me out to be

I write because I’m a gemini whose two sides look like Bruce Banner and The Hulk

I write because I haven’t had an outlet since my heart took basketball away

I write because I’ve got things to say and stories to tell

I write because these experiences aren’t unique to me alone

I write because I hope that it will someday help others