The Art That Keeps Me Breathing
by Salihah

Roberta keeps me company when I write. Her voice making everything poetic, making me believe I’m a poet.
The strokes play in my headphones as I try to mimic their stylings. Fingers tripping on the A string. I am not good, not yet.
I admire my aunt Bisa’s work and try to be like her. Cut slave quilt designs from printing blocks and press ink into fabric. Being as black and alive as I know how to be.
Its Ramadhan and Native Deen reminds me of my childhood. I crush all fears of alone and thank God for together.
Quran is playing in the background of my subconscious as I stay up all night baking beignets and cookies that taste like warm hugs. The mountains keep us steady and I know better than anyone.
I’m sustained by this art, who’s surprised?