The podium

All I want is to succeed. All I need is one to believe in me. I know right now, I am my own worst enemy. I knew back then, it would be hard to achieve. But come next May, I’ll put all my fears away and embrace the moment when all will know it’s my day. Everything I gave up, for everyone who wished me the best of luck, for those who knew I’d fail and the few who thought I’d end up in jail. Where I came from doesn’t dictate who I will become. The color of my skin won’t confine me, but it will empower me. I hear my mother’s thoughts out loud as I walk on that stage. Her fears of not having enough money fill my head with rage. All the college debt, all the financial need that was unmet. As I stand at the podium and look across the sea of faces, I know I’m not alone. I know that no one can put a price tag on my life and what it’s worth. I cherish the journey and accept the destination, no matter the cost.