03/13/2026
I didnโt know it then,
the ripple this would create.
A tidal wave that swallowed the life I once knew,
my imagined future washed away by fate.
Sometimes I barely recognize that girl
sitting there on the shore,
staring out at a life she couldnโt yet imagine.
All she knew is that she was ready for so much more.
If I could go back, Iโd thank her-
for her courage, for her wisdom.
For tearing down the life she had,
for the one she knew she was meant for.
โHowโs the world now?โ sheโd ask.
I wouldnโt have the heart to tell her.
โYour life is great,
just donโt turn on the news.โ
Six years from now, I hope we can say
that our collective awakening, our rage
is overtaking the darkness
that has consumed too many of our days.
May this sacred day be a reminder
that the matriarchy is rising,
like tides of hope and faith.
And that just over the horizon,
a portal to peace awaits.
