metaphorgirl

you ever look at indigenous women with our dark brown eyes and see the twinkle reflect back into yours?

that’s hope. that’s healing. that’s good medicine. that’s the look of intergenerational healing.

it starts off as a glimmer. a tiny speck of sunshine.

it starts off as one week sober.
it starts off as going back to school.
it starts off as braiding your hair.
it starts off as asking “when’s the next roundy?”
it starts off by hugging your parents.
it starts off by acknowledging your feelings.
it starts off by showing up for your kids.
it starts off by practicing your language.
it starts off by reaching out—

reaching out of your chest
and into your soul—
finding your purpose,
pulling it out,
utilizing it,
embracing it.

it starts off by smiling at a stranger.
it starts off by seeing a twinkle in her eyes.

it starts with

kiya—you.