DIARY ENTRY from June 17, 2024

“In each present moment, we have the power to be the version of ourselves that suits our highest needs.”

- Farah Lawal Harris

DIARY ENTRY from June 17, 2024:

Dear Future Me,

I got angry today. I was on the way to pick up my prescription that sat at Giant Pharmacy for 12 days. It was time to get it.

This hot, sticky night felt nice. I made most of the green lights ‘til I met a red one at a major intersection. I didn't sweat it, instead turned up Kendrick.

As soon as the light turned green, a big clique of motorbikes on the opposite side decide to U-turn. One of them was not even wearing a helmet! They rode three lanes wide and six rows deep. The one in the back peeped back behind often. It felt like a threat to me. Suddenly, the one with the bun bumped a curb and he and his bike met asphalt. He quickly recovered and rode AGAINST the flow of traffic.

Pissed, I cussed, tensed my wrists and forehead, and hoisted my shoulders toward heaven. I commanded myself to breathe. Asked myself: “What happens when you observe instead of react? Baby, why are we THIS mad?”

After three deep breaths, the answer came:

I feel angry because fools endangered my safety.

I am precious cargo.

I didn't make breast cancer to hit the road

only to get injured by some jackholes.

Hell no!

3 more breaths.

My right shoulder starts to rest.

Anger is my birthright,

but so is peace.

I remind myself

of the highest version of me,

slowly morph into her

as I turn left into the parking lot.

In the Giant Pharmacy pick-up line,

I bopped my head to

"What if God was one of us?"

blasting through store speakers.

A brother behind me sang along.

I turned around beaming, shouted

"This is my shit!"

We laughed. It was like an air dap.

And just like that,

I returned to myself.

Farah Lawal Harris

Farah Lawal Harris is an artist and breast cancer survivor who inspires people to overcome obstacles and be well. Through vulnerable storytelling, writing, and theatre, Farah makes people feel less alone and more able to tap into their personal power to be their best, creative selves.

https://www.farahlawalharris.com
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BLACK GIRL FLY (Poem)

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PRODUCTIVITY IS A FORM OF STRUGGLE