The boldness in me is growing. I once again took the small stage at Central Cinema for the Knoxville Poetry open mic. It is such a welcoming place, a place to learn and explore who you are, where you are encouraged to speak your mind, your truth, your musings, and your dreams. It is a fun night filled with humor, encouragement, and acceptance. The second Wednesday of the month has become a sacred space for many. You should join me some night.

A friend videoed my shade and humor tonight. I will warn you, there is graphic language, so this is not a post for my gentler reader, just a forewarning for the video.

I never asked you
Read at the Knoxville Poetry Slam, August, 2023

I never asked you
Because friendship was enough

I never asked you
Because you had it rough

I never asked you
For more

I never asked you 
To be sure

I never asked you
For a relationship

I never asked you
To be whipped

I never asked you
To give me anything

I never asked you
To be my well spring

I never asked you
To matter

I never asked you 
To be better

I never asked you 
To be mine

I never asked you
Because you needed more time

I never asked you
To care

I never asked you 
To be there

I never asked you 
To be with me

I never asked you
To bend a knee

I never asked you 
To be my home

I never asked you 
To keep me from being alone

I never asked you 
To be something you are not

I never asked you
Because I cared a lot

I never asked you
Because I knew you did not

I never asked you 
Because I wouldn’t lie

I never asked you 
Because of your pride

I never asked you
Because we weren’t a team

I never asked you
Because I’m more than just  a dream

I never asked you 
Because you didn’t want me

I never asked you
Because it will never be

I never asked you
Because I need an equal

I never asked you
Because I’m better than a sequel

I never asked you 
Because I need to be chased

I never asked you
Because I knew it was a waste

I never asked you 
Because I’m not on the fence

I never asked you
Because of your arrogance

I never asked you
for your rebirth

I never asked you 
Because I know my true worth