Two years ago, regret existed only as a foreign concept. Who could prepare for a reality so brutal: my mother’s spirit relieved of its physical form, leaving me to attach it to objects classified as relics. 

Her annotated bible, a silver cross pendant, and a Michael Kors wristwatch. 

Katherine Doraella Steverson (Kathy, Kat) noun. powerful, black woman: A warrior within a battle of mental and environmental chaos.An everlasting love.

Cynthia Ann Kelly (grandma, mom mom) noun. sigil of resilience: A home, an umbrella, a foundation. 

Women who bathe me in the gospel from a seedling nurturing me into my faith. The angst has not been a silent struggle, but how hypocritical of me to not follow through on the mantra, “Everything happens for a reason.” I question my evolution as a “better man” walking through the Cerulean abyss.
Facing anxiety with an inherited shield. Ode to thyself that this world is not worthy of my tears, but they will harken these words of silver remembrance.