Adaline Schick

I carry

For precaution

In preparation

or necessity.

I carry worry for my future

and doubt that it’s not enough.

But I carry hope

that everything will work out

and that these years of hardwork will pay off.

I carry optimism

that everything happens for a reason

that all these hills I climb will open into valleys.

I carry on my wrist braided bracelets in hues

of blue and pink, yellow and green

the color scheme of all the things in my life

rivers, sunrises, Balsamroot and forests

and beaded necklaces on my neck

gifts from friends

and the reminder of the love I carry in my heart

I carry my water bottle, scattered with stickers that represent my life

my passions

my desires.

And among these things, I carry consideration,

careful not to judge

the people living around me

consideration for feelings, many of which aren’t mine.

But most importantly, I carry memories

memories of all the things I've experienced

and felt

and carried.