Bitter Yet Sweet by Rachel.R.R

Rachel, that’s what they call me

It represents beauty

I don’t see it though

I am a simple, young Guyanese girl

I’ve traveled once again

I now reside in the wavering weather of New York with silent streets,

In which neighbors are still strangers.

I remember those days when I used to climb mango trees

The sunshine that beamed through the window of my room awaken me

Heard laughter of children playing

The cool breeze in the nights that led me at ease

The tempted aroma of chicken curry

The friendly neighbors that became family

I miss my sweet native land

Which I still call home.

I don’t feel welcome here.

They said that I am sweet as a rose

Yet they speak of my name

As though it was daily news.

Damaged and used like an old wrecked truck

Yet- I stand strong and tall

Like the coconut tree that

Withstand the blazing gust of nightmare.

I now trust a few

That orbits the sun around me

In this, my self-confidence grew.

My heart often danced to

The soothing sound of Michael’s music

“Heal the world make it a better place”

That’s what I aim to do.

Yes, my life is just bitter-sweet.