Fluttering stomach butterflies spelt anxiety to try new things. My soul’s lightness was proof for all I let go.

My fluid and versatile taste in music has the footprints of friends, neighbors, random people, bus rides, and so many other circumstances. Each song has a story, albeit short, that reminds me of someone or a group of persons.

How could I explain to people that a joke or insensitive comment about my weight touches very deep parts of my soul if I allow it?

And with each candle I blow out, I claim it fully—flawed, resilient, and wholly mine.

I was determined to be respected: I would rather be respected than liked. I was not going to be the yes woman for anyone, and I accomplished it.

We’d argue and laugh loudly like mad people. He was sure, he was insightful, and he was kind. I needed him and he’d be there in five minutes if he could. I had an issue with a course and he took the materials, read it overnight, explained it to me, and I got it.