On my solemn day of birth…

I must say I love to reflect.

I had a quiet day. I woke up and had a bowl of cereal- we had no spoons so I used a fork.

I listened to music and meditated. The sun shined brightly as I hoped.

I had a beautifully nude dream the night before- It was full of love…

I walked to my place of work to pick up my pay check.

Then I walked to this coin-op laundry place near home to do a load of whites and my work shirt by the time I finished drying my clothes I was cutting it close to getting to work on time. (I love to do my laundry here…these places usually have big windows with glorious urban lighting).

I stopped by home to drop off damp socks, boxers, and undershirts. I took my work shirt and lost it along the walk to work.

It feels good to hurt. To have a human arm twisted by life but the fires fuming from chimneys, the breeze sifting through trees, and the light that cadences through winter windows onto countertops cannot understand my call for uncle. I feel strong and I feel alive to this pain. I can laugh harder and think more clearly. I can love more. I am less ashamed. I stand more proud.

I am 23 and feel no day older but more fitted under my own skin-fitted into the grey hairs in my beard.

I am growing immune to these hardships and will continue to see the shine in everyday should I be blessed with eyes that continue to feel the warmth granted to me in everyday life.

I love you.