Ciara Ayala

Strong & Brave

by Ciara Ayala

I am strong and brave I wonder how did what I do

I hear water

I see butterflies, and a light I want my dad back I am strong and brave

I pretend I am happy and okay but really I’m hurt I feel my dad holding me I touch my dad’s hand I cry because I miss him so much I am strong and brave

I understand he is gone and not coming back I say life will not be the same without you but I will be fine

I dream that I can see you again I try to keep mom happy and not depressed I hope one day we will have something we dreamed and wanted

I am strong and brave

The Impossible

by Ciara Ayala

I am from the quiet house from the blankets and pillows The yellow red and brown house from in the cozy rooms I am from the beds

The big tall tree outside

I’m from big parties and screaming From my grandma and grandpa I’m from the headaches and loud music

And from always shopping

I’m from being very crazy and loud And “be nice”

I’m from the cooking I’m from Brookdale hospital and Puerto Rico Empanadas and pastelles From my auntie passing away so young her fighting cancer at the beginning of the year to passing away at the end The photos books From the boxes of photos and cameras with videos