I am a dreamer because I see hope
in the pupils of your eyes
and beauty in failure
struggle as a stepping stone
on the seemingly infinite staircase
to success
I am a leader because I am the oldest
of three daughters
the role model because I am
the way I am supposed to be
obedient, respectful, but
opinionated and honest
the way I want them to be
I am an athlete who thrives
in competition
and lives off the adrenaline
only running can provide
because nothing feels better
than exhaustion I’ve earned
I am an extrovert in a crowd of friendly faces
gregarious, outgoing, eager
to meet as many people as possible
make as many friends as possible
raising my hand in class
to have my voice heard
I am a nerd because I enjoy learning,
studying, and teaching
because knowledge is boundless
and I’d like to solve
all the unanswered questions
I am a writer because I don’t plan
every word in an essay, or story
or poem, the words come naturally
like water cascading down a fall
effortless and beautiful
I am lucky because I recognize that
there aren’t a lot of people like me
and I am grateful for who I am
every flaw and every strength
Cymbals Magazine 