ode to the girl in my homeroom who only speaks french

i know all the words, of course. who doesn't? we are practically

brainwashed into our knowing, having to stand and face the flag

(when did you learn that it was hand over heart &

you are.

and: you don't have to be. 

let yourself exist.

sleep in late.

make your favorite foods.

hug your shoulders, your knees, not to hide behind but to marvel at.

you are marvelous.

i accidentally posted "letter to anyone who thinks they're not enough" in response to the us health challenge, which was a mistake, so i had to repost it.