Things I Carry

I carry the tears and struggles of my mother.

I carry the memories of smiling and laughing with family and friends.

I carry the chance in life that God gave me after everything.

I carry my past as a lesson to become stronger.

I carry the smile of my siblings that gives me hope.

I carry the experiences of doing things I have never done.

I carry the time I spend with friends that gives me joy.

I carry the love of my family that brings me strength.

I carry the work of my ancestors whom I never met.

I carry the thoughts of my mother to keep me alive.

I carry the portrait of my loved brother to always remember he is still alive.

I carry my family’s religion to never forget how to smile.

Authored by a Survivor’s Daughter. The art is drawn by the author as a birthday gift for her mom.