The three words for me embody the essence of Pride Month, the month of June, usually dedicated to the LGBTQ+ communities around the world.
With the arrival of June 1st this year, my daughter Trishara, showed me an Instagram post, that captured the essence of Pride Month. I share the image here, for you all, @blessthemessy.
But that got me thinking, and it resulted in the shortest poetic reflection I’ve ever written.
I thought at some stage, it may be incomplete, but I’ve found since, that it became a catalyst for conversation, critical conversation.
I had decided that in commemoration of Pride Month, I would begin, my most recent ‘Poetry Morning with Friends’ at the Saffron Family Kitchen, with this short poem.
I had no idea, that it would create a safe space for critical thought, comfort, and cultural reflection, of the awareness and relevance of Pride, in all our lives.
Perhaps it was one of the last reflections from this powerful group that stayed with me, the most. This generation, this current generation of kids, teenagers, of young adults, see beauty in the human being, all of it. They are not akin to colour, bias, or orientation of any kind. Moreover, they are willing to step into the arena and make us, parents, look into it too.
We found, that in these few profound minutes of conversation, that the future is bright, it will lead the way for a new society, where everyone is comfortable to be truly themselves if we let it.
And it all began with just 7 lines, ‘I am free’.
Note to self, once again, shorter poems, please.
It was a Poetry morning like no other, and I think it set the tone for the next.
I’m excited.
My absolute gratitude to Tanya Holtman, and to every woman that joined this last Saturday, you are all heroes!
Finally a special ‘Thank You’ to the Saffron Family Kitchen, your service and smiles are phenomenal, to Amber & Ocean at 2 Sisters Le Vegan Café for your creative decadence during Pride Month.
A Wonderful, wintery week to you all. Stay warm and safe!
❤️
Pralene