Talia Mingey

When you touch me
I feel sacred
This temple opens
Welcomes in the holy

I was furious with the world
With my world that teaches you
Getting me drunk is foreplay
My world that says
Not being able to consent
Is a drunken mistake

A poet asked if I had an eating disorder once
My mouth formed a NO
Before my tongue could remember
How do I explain food is safety and poison all at once?

I pray for the fall.
No matter who catches.
The point is that I jumped.

Pain is meant to be shared, just as joy is. We could not survive as humans if we had to do it all on our own.

First, I want survivors to know they’re not alone in their fear. I want them to know it’s okay to be a mess if you need to. The right one will understand. I also want them to know I am proud of them for facing their fears.

Who decided natural meant white?

White people did.

As you find yourself reflecting on 2018, I challenge you to see the bad times in a new light.