Lawrence Walker

I am from two different worlds. 

The first is where I wonder if I belong, 

where people don't see me for who I am, 

only for who they want me to be. 

It's where we don't have zaman lafiya—we have destruction, 

where humanity is dying, 

and we judge each other.

The second is a place where I am loved. 

My family supports me, 

my teacher tells me to keep striving, 

and I belong to a class of greatness. 

My peers lift me up and give me advice, 

helping me to calm down 

and remember the consequences of my actions.

I dream of a world 

where I can walk the streets without fear, 

where my mom and dad are together, 

where we no longer objectify women, 

and everyone creates a positive ripple. 

When we keep trying, we achieve greatness.

I will work for a world where we all belong— 

building together, 

steadying ourselves with grace, 

walking hand in hand towards a horizon of true peace, harmony, justice, and liberty, 

where uniqueness is celebrated, 

and where we all finally know that we belong!