Today, on the pre eve of my 40th birthday, I reflect on a decade that has been overall a blessing. However it would be dishoneset to say it has not been filled with challenges, pain, and deep uncertainties as well. Here is one last poem posted at 39. With gratitude. - Poet Simone

Coffee and whisky scented candle flickers in the background providing no extra warmth 

but the smells waft up my nasal cavity and it is pleasing to my soul

You hold the mirror back at me 

So that I can do better

So that I I can do things differently

Let me feel the feels

Allow me to just heal

Oh how it feels to be free in this Black female body

I wish I could tell you

March 1st is Self-Injury Awareness Day. In honor of my journey, here is a sequel so to speak of “Rock this Testimony”

I’m going to praise

Hands up to the sky

Meet me where I am Lord prayers

I will enter into this new age with joy

Oh yes, I will enter into this new age with joy!

Not always happy

But full of joy

When you look at me what do you see?

the moon will rise again and I don’t want you to miss her beauty.

The only way I have ever known how to shut up is to speak louder

The channels once stopped up by fear now run clear

There is just so much stored up inside 5 foot 2 me

The tears give my feelings somewhere to be

No one is holding you back but yourself

You cannot worry about the people

They are not yours to please

One must search for that hint of light…

You deserve to take up space.