Tomorrow

BY MALIX CAMPBELL

Illustration by Rosie Olang

Today, I am a child different from others I represent shame and fear for mom and dad I have to be careful about what I do and what I say

Today, I can’t go to certain places because my friends will be there I must resign myself to misery Because I was born in a body that wasn’t mine

Today, At night, I cry myself to sleep, and start my mornings with tears Because for me, every day is a challenge Night and day, I have to face the world

Tomorrow, I will be the pillar of my mom and dad I will be the pride of my siblings I will be someone my friends can rely on I will be a blessing for my country because I fought

Tomorrow, I will be the one who fought in spite of mockery and humiliation I will be the one who took risks even when my life was at stake I will leave, go far away so as not to see their faces covered in shame

Tomorrow, I will make a difference, for myself and for all of us I will be praised by all I will be proud; proud of you and proud of us.