By Tyree Jackson

My journey isn’t smoothly paved.
I’ve been stopped by predators and poisoned along the way.
There were many times I believed I couldn’t stand.
And there were many times I felt my life would just end.

But then I looked to you—your smile allowed me to break the walls that
isolated me from society.
So when I looked into your eyes—my reflection reminded me of a boy striving.
When I cried, I knew that you would be there to wipe away my tears, and say
“My son be strong and keep your head up high.”

You give me strength, when mine has depleted.
And it’s your motherly touch that heals my cuts and bruises when needed.
I look to you when others turned away.
And I will always look to you—for your presence allows me to truly see brighter days.