I AM…

As Lauryn Hill played in the background, I began to chant my favorite personal mantras, “I am…” A Mantra is defined as a sacred verbal formula repeated in prayer, meditation, or incantation, such as an invocation of a god, a magic spell, or a syllable or portion of scripture containing mystical potentialities. In those moments when life gets hard, I find ways to invoke and reclaim my personal power. These “I AM” statements began during a challenging moment in my life. I started to write and post them my bathroom mirror as simple reminders. Soon they evolved into so much more.

The poem below is inspired my “I am…” mantras.

My heart has been bruised, battered and crumbled into pieces,

there are moments when I am afraid to step into the light.

I am afraid to show the soft, fluffy inside

that melts like buttercream on warm lips,

the curvaceous road of laughter,

that travels across breasts covered by lilies.

I am afraid to reveal the secret tonic that sends a man dancing for God.

This vulnerable essence is more than sweetness.

I am afraid to scream from my soul,

and to be called the bitch that stakes her claim.

To stand proudly in my grace,

tackling my fears of ego and jealousy.

To embrace my power that creates life,

and allow my peacock feathers to flow in the wind of doubt.

But I will rip off my veil,

I will let go of the pain that doubled me over in tears.

I will wash away the sadness that darkens my light.

I say yes to the love that I am,

I will speak to the angels that protect my soul,

I will fall at the feet of passion,

and free my nectar to pour a million songs.

This is my right, and I will dance in the glory.

I am not afraid.

I am LOVE.

I am POWERFUL.

I am VULNERABLE.

I am BEAUTY.

I am DIVINE.

I am SOULFUL.

I am FREE.

I am a WOMAN.

I am FAITH!