Before I could see myself as a "real" poet, she did. She fussed at me for even uttering those words. In our first conversation, I vividly remember Mrs. Brown telling me, "If nothing else, this pandemic has taught us that-it couldn't can!"

 

After that, I stopped saying I couldn't read my poems aloud in front of people or thinking my poems might never be read by others. I read in front of my sisters in TDBC Bookclub, to Ms. Lacee, and to my friend Tiveeda; so much support came from opening up. I entrusted my friend Shaaren when she told me to simply write and she would make a platform for me to share. My sister Ebony, who always thinks deeply about details and protection thought of ways to protect each writing and image. I am grateful for my tribe. Mrs. Brown knew if I believed I could I would.

 

I took notes of each conversation with Mrs. Brown. It was as if my soul knew we wouldn't have enough time. Before we ended our final conversation, she told me, "He didn’t give it to you to bury and put under a bush. Work it!"

 

Mrs. Brown was right, I have seen proof positive that it couldn't can and so now I must work it as she instructed and carry on the Legacy of the Poets Pen.

 

Best, VanNessa