Embracing Nature, Embracing me
Valley Stream, NY
2025, Junior, Poetry & Spoken Word
When we moved to Long Island, life changed overnight,
From Brooklyn’s rhythm to this world of white.
The only Black girl, feeling so small,
With my hair like clouds, and skin standing tall.
In the beginning, I searched for a place to belong,
But in every classroom, I felt I was wrong.
Each face around me felt like a wall,
A reminder that difference was not welcome at all.
So, I found solace where no one would judge—
Outside in the open, near trees that don’t budge.
I’d walk to the park, step slow on each path,
And nature embraced me, forgave my past.
The towering pines whispered secrets and songs,
A reminder that roots can stretch deep and strong.
I’d run my fingers through the cool, gentle moss,
Feeling strength in the ground, finding hope in my loss.
Under wide skies, in fields wild and free,
I realized nature looked a bit like me.
Untamed and strong, with a spirit so fierce,
Like waves on the shore, that crash then pierce.
I let the breeze play with my coiled hair,
For once, unbothered by how others stare.
The sun didn’t care if I was different or rare,
It shone on me warmly, it met my heart there.
I saw myself in the soil and streams,
In the boldness of storms, in the quietest dreams.
Each bird that soared, each leaf that fell,
Told me I had a story to tell.
With each sunrise, nature taught me to see
That my difference was beauty, like rivers to sea.
Now I walk with pride, wherever I go,
In nature’s acceptance, I started to grow.
I found my place, not in halls of my school,
But in waves, in trees, where the world was my tool.
Nature whispered, “You’re exactly right,
Like stars in the sky, you bring your own light.”
Reflection
My piece, "Embracing Nature, Embracing Me," was inspired by my personal journey of feeling different and finding comfort in nature’s embrace. After moving from Brooklyn to a predominantly white neighborhood in Long Island, I struggled with my identity as the only Black girl in my school. Nature became my refuge; I felt a deep connection with the trees, rivers, and skies, which didn’t judge or exclude me. This experience made me realize how grounding and healing the natural world could be, especially for someone who feels out of place. Through researching the theme "Connections to Nature: Looking Inside, Going Outside," I gained a stronger appreciation for how nature is a constant, resilient force. I’ve learned that our relationship with nature is one of balance and reciprocity; it supports us in our struggles, and we, in turn, have a responsibility to protect and honor it. My message to viewers is that, in nature, we can all find acceptance and strength, no matter who we are. Nature can help us understand ourselves, making it essential to connect with and protect it for future generations.