Archived from April 2017
When we wake up in this spring season and see the sun creeping through our blinds, many of us quickly open the window or check an app to see what the weather is. This is especially true in NYC where we have one shot at nailing our wardrobe before setting off on foot for the rest of the day. Sweater/umbrella or nah?—can make or break an otherwise pleasant afternoon.
When I arrive at Rikers, my students size me up: they see the sun shining outside the window but since the officers wear the same uniform throughout the year, they look for my clothes to signal what it feels like outside.
“Is it warm?” two of the girls asked in response to the sweater dress and leggings I had on yesterday.
“It’s chilly,” I told them. “Just looks warm.” I need a better weather app.
It’s easy to take seeing the sun and feeling it’s warmth for granted. Joni Mitchell never lied, “You don’t know what you got til it’s gone.” What little freedoms might you miss?
(currently-incarcerated students’ work has been taken down, pending department approval)
Inside-Out
Group-Think
I don’t wanna die
or go to jail
Cause inside here
this shit’s like hell
Look around
and what do you see?
Darkness outside
and inside of me
If I was given a chance
I would change
Tired of this life
tired of being estranged
Lock-In Thoughts
By S.
I feel alone
Lonely and young
Is hope bringing hope
Is faith bringing faith
Love don’t bring love
Hate bring hate
And freedom…
Freedom is taken in just a snap
How you flying with no wings?
How you think with no brain?
But I won’t be alone
Won’t be lonely or young no more
I bring hope and faith
I am a shining star
I shine brighter than the sun
I overpower love and hate
I bring power and strength
Don’t worry I got family DTB! DTN!
Delilah,
I’m sorry for not being the best mom. I promise I’ll change and be better for us. The streets dragged me in; I love fast money and violence. Mama isn’t giving so I gotta get.
A. C.
It’s supposed to be 84 degrees tomorrow—but don’t take my word for it.