What I Wish By Azreya

What I Wish is a powerful poem written and performed by Azreya, a talented young artist from Stomping Grounds Literary Arts Initiative (LAI). This piece earned her the prestigious Gwendolyn Brooks Award, which was presented at the Logan Center Exhibitions. Azreya’s family was present to witness her receive this well-deserved honor. Her work captures the essence of self-reflection and expression, showcasing her incredible gift for storytelling through poetry. We are so proud to share her piece with the world and celebrate this remarkable achievement!Please watch, share, and support this rising star!

What I Wish

by Azreya H.

I wish when I was younger

I told my dad how I felt about him being locked up

and how I felt like

his absence really messed me up,

how I felt like he chose the streets

over me,

how he wasn't there for me

when I needed him most,

when I needed him to protect me

from all the things that hurt me,

how I felt like he wasn't trying to come home to me,

and how I felt like not having my dad

has stopped me from being able to have healthy relationships,

how I hate he left my mama

out here alone to take care of all the kids he helped make,

and how I feel like he isn't a real man

because he doesn't provide for

or take care of his family..