Fear is:

Waking up

Breathing

Going outside

Speaking

Being silent

Waiting

 

For justice, for peace, for things to change

 

The other day my friend said, “I’m gonna make it out.”

I said, “Don’t hold your breath.”

She replied, “It’s all about that first step.”

 

I kicked a rock and closed my eyes.

 

Tick tick tick tick. Stop.

I screamed as we dropped.

Facing my fear, and I can barely hear myself think.

 

This is beginning.

 

Getting out of bed

Exhaling

Walking down the street

Hold an audience’s attention

Screaming with intent

Running at full speed toward your dreams

 

We are attempting.

Trying our best

Without fear