What am I running from? I have the right to be angry. Anger is a natural part of the grieving process, and I’m grieving. I’m grieving and angry because I’m a loser. I’ve lost people whom I’ve loved. I’ve lost friendships and communities. I’ve lost places and possessions. And, most of all, I’ve lost my own sense of dignity and self-worth. I’m a poet, a performer, and a perpetual student, none of which are valued in our society unless you’re one of the unfortunate few who get discovered and become famous. I don’t want to be famous. I want to work hard and to play hard. I want to enjoy spending time with friends and family. I want to contribute to the transformation of primary education in this country, and I want to help make the world a better place for the people who are already here as well as for those who will come after us. It shouldn’t have to be such a battle. It’ shouldn’t have to be such a losing battle. Instead of running from all of the grief and loss and anger, I want to run toward mercy, grace, and acceptance. But I’m too tired to run anywhere at the moment. So, I think I’ll just sit here and rest for a while.