Closing Acknowledgments

A huge thanks to everyone involved at Just Buffalo Literary Center for taking a chance on me and for providing a safe haven for creative thinkers to make projects like ‘’THE INBETWEEN’’ seem like a possibility. To the extraordinary Robin Jordan, for going above and beyond to not only inspire but to challenge my creativity to new lengths to take on a concept that I deemed abstract at the time. Not only was this my first completed project, but an enriching introduction to the Buffalo literacy and poetry community that in turn ignited my passion for creating art again.

Thanks to my parents that bared with me during my various awkward pursuits to my ‘’ultimate form of self expression’’ I’m grateful to have been gifted with two nurturers that granted me the space to freely explore my horizon. I’m sure this will aid in preventing the ‘’should’ve, could’ve, would’ve’’ syndrome later on in my adult years.

And an acknowledgment to my Godmother for her continuous support, although at one point I felt hesitant to share my pieces with your church when you invited me to perform. The platform only served to be the stepping stones for me to be open to receiving opportunities like these. And to the very sweet women that gave me their words of encouragement after showcasing my art in their place of worship. Your words acted as a form of a manifestation for this book to later on become a reality, and for that I offer my gratitude.

And last but not least, thanks to my mentors Matthew Bosque and Kevin Kline for giving me the incentive to go through Just Buffalo Literary Centers application process. That resulted in my Senior year of High School commencing on the ultimate high note by being granted the opportunity to be selected for this fellowship program. And to every instructor and guidance counselor at Buffalo Center For Arts and Technology, keep believing in the students that come through BCAT’s classrooms.

-M!LL!EE RAEE