I Am

By BB

I am because I am alive
I am because I have suffered and still survive
I am because I see the light
I am because I am one with mankind’s plight

I am because I feel
I am because I hurt and I heal
I am because I exist
I am because I stand up to oppression and resist

I am because I am a human being
One who felt and seen many a thing
I am because I am here
I am because I love and I care

I am because I make mistakes
To become better I am doing whatever it takes
I am because I am not perfect in my doing
Many failures have resulted in the goals that I am pursuing

I am because I keep on trying
I am now but one day I will be dying
I am because I came and went
I am because when I left the earth I left my footprint

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79 Comments

  1. Michalla Nixon on March 23, 2020 at 11:31 AM

    BB, this is amazing. We are composed of every thing that that has happened to us and everything that is going to happen us. We are our memories, our fears, our talents, the people in our lives that care about us, our mistakes and our successes. Such beautiful writing, and I can’t wait to read more of your work. Hope all is well, and thank you so much for sharing!

  2. Rudy on March 23, 2020 at 4:12 PM

    The first thing I noticed was the repetition of the three words “I am because.” I really appreciate the weight of these words and how they come together to create a full picture of who you are. Additionally, the times that you don’t use the words “I am” to start the line, the statement is emphasized more. With these three lines I see a smaller story within a big one and I think this is an extremely compelling addition. I also noticed the rhyme scheme in couplets. I think this carries the poem on forward rather well, and I can tell that you put a lot of effort into finding these matches. My favorite stanza is the last one because I think it gives the audience something to consider: everyone will die, so leave your own unique footprint on the Earth. The last line is very deep and I saw it as an important aspect of the theme of your poem: life journeys. I noticed that most of the lines are in present tense, but the last two contain past tense. This was the only question I had. What was the purpose of the past tense in the last line? This was an interesting switch and I wanted to clarify the purpose behind it. Lastly, This poem builds a profile for you and I enjoy reading it because each line is an addition to a picture put in the reader’s mind. I just read a poem recently that organized each stanza by a specific topic or general idea. This made the poem even easier to understand and I would suggest considering this idea for future poems you write. Although, I do appreciate how the structure of the poem seems to mirror what you have gone through and experienced. It seems as though you had many ups and downs that may not have been expected and the organization of the poem reflects this. Overall, I can see the poem took a lot of thought and vulnerability to share about life experiences, and I enjoyed reading it.

  3. Athena on March 24, 2020 at 12:16 PM

    This poem was really inspiring. I really connected with your descriptions on humanity; survival, existing, feeling, making mistakes, being imperfect but continuing to persist, especially in the face of oppression. I am. . .glad to know that you are working towards goals that will help you live a more joyful life for YOU! Don’t give up, the world is full of tough choices but one day you can look back on life and be glad for all you have learned. Thank you for leaving your footprints today, and every other day.

  4. A on March 24, 2020 at 4:41 PM

    Your poem is truly relatable for all! It expresses what it truly means to be human. There are many differences that people usually use to try to divide us. But first and foremost, we are all human beings who go through the same things. We all feel the same emotions. We all have had obstacles in our lives. But we have survived them all. Sometimes our obstacles overwhelm us and it feels like we cannot overcome them. Your poem does a great job of reminding readers that we are alive and we are human. To be so means to have had obstacles, to still have obstacles, and to always have obstacles. That is what it means to be human, what it means to be alive. We are all trying to fight some battle. This is an awesome reminder that we are more alike than we think.

  5. Sabeen on March 24, 2020 at 6:06 PM

    A piece that is so beautiful in itself. You feel the pain and authenticity with every line. Keep up the great work.

  6. Homa on March 25, 2020 at 12:03 AM

    BB,

    Every word in this poem is full of emotions, feelings, and truth. It is great to see that you keep on going no matter what and trying your best to learn from your failures. I believe that we are human begins who keep fighting for what is right and standing up for what is wrong. Keep on going and writing poems. Great Poem.

  7. Gisselle on March 25, 2020 at 3:38 PM

    Reading this made me think of a bunch of things. Certain things were running through my mind. It is such a great poem that you wrote. Not every human being is perfect but sometimes we make an impression when we’re on this earth. This poem says a lot. Well done!

  8. Renee Leduc on March 25, 2020 at 3:57 PM

    So powerful! Your use of “I am” is so empowering. Encourages us all to get inside our true selves rather than escaping ourselves and negative self talk. Thank you for sharing.

    • Keli on April 23, 2020 at 10:24 PM

      “I am” is an empowering statement. What I love about this poem is that there are those “I am” lines that I can relate to as well. There are some that are uniquely yours, or that you share with other people in the community.

  9. Karen bates on March 25, 2020 at 4:44 PM

    Hi BB –
    I just read your poem and was blown away by it. I am grateful to you for sharing the feelings of uncertainty and pain that so many people have but so few are able or willing to express to others. You are a really talented writer. I hope you keep it up.

  10. Maureen Geraghty on March 25, 2020 at 5:14 PM

    Love it! I especially like the last line. Your words will leave your footprint for sure.

  11. Jane Stevens on March 25, 2020 at 5:41 PM

    BB, I love your poetry. It is succinct and paints a touching picture of you. It’s powerful because you acknowledge failings and mistakes yet you interject strength and positive words toward change. Your rhymes are sensitive and not forced. Very well written and felt.

  12. Gianna Torres on March 25, 2020 at 7:19 PM

    BB, This poem really says a lot. Something I really took out of this is that our society doesn’t realize at times what people have been through, and the impacts these events have had on each and every one of us. Your words speak of adversity and the challenges I can’t even imagine you have faced. The fact that you admit to these mistakes and failures says so much about you. But even more your response to these struggles say so much more. They tell me you are a fighter, and you still are not giving up on your dreams. Many people often give up in hard times and it takes a lot from a person to overcome the fears of failing, but you haven’t and I think that is something very admirable. Thank you for this.

  13. Coughlin / Johnson Family on March 25, 2020 at 8:51 PM

    I like how you use rhyming and repetition to write this poem; it flows really nicely. Good word choices, figurative language and imagery! Your words are inspiring and it painted a picture. Keep on writing!

  14. Lynne Heneson on March 26, 2020 at 9:07 AM

    What a powerful poem! Your use of rhyme is very effective and drives the rhythm of the poem. The theme reminds me of the philosopher Rene Descartes’ statement, “I think, therefore I am.” In this poem, you not only think but express deep emotions. Well done! Lynne

  15. jones on March 26, 2020 at 1:30 PM

    Very positive Affirmation Thanks for sharing

  16. Beth on March 26, 2020 at 2:23 PM

    BB—I think that is a wonderful poem!!! Keep on writing and keep believing. I am so sorry for the things you have suffered. Remember that there are others who care-me included. Be safe and continue to express yourself. ❤️

  17. Elizabeth Diaz on March 26, 2020 at 6:16 PM

    What a powerful poem. What I took from it is that as humans, we are bound to make mistakes. It is a part of being alive, but what matters is what we do to correct them. Through this poem, I can feel that you are someone who chooses to have a positive mindset. I picture you as someone who had a rough past but now wants to leave that behind. I appreciate the simplicity of the poem. It is simple but powerful. Great job. It inspires me to write my own poetry on who I am. Thank you

  18. stillplacemd on March 26, 2020 at 7:39 PM

    Dear BB
    Your poem “I AM” is beautiful and powerful and full of wisdom about life.
    It shows how much you are reflecting on your own life and it makes me
    understand more about my own.
    Keep on writing poetry. It is a great gift that you are sharing.
    Judy

  19. Gianna on March 28, 2020 at 1:49 PM

    BB,
    Your poem was amazing. Not only did I really enjoy your rhyming pattern, but your poem was filled with a lot of reflection and power. You captured what it means to be human in such a beautiful and powerful way. My favorite part of your poem was lines 13-16. Through your words, I was able to reflect on my own life and what it means to be human and just simply myself. Keep on writing!! You are very talented.

  20. Isis on March 28, 2020 at 2:38 PM

    BB,

    Thank you for sharing your emotional-driven poem. When I read it out loud, it flowed so well and I can feel your wisdom and pain. We are human, and we will always leave a footprint where ever we go. Keep on writing poetry, and do not ever quit on yourself. Keep inspiring and keep believing!

    -Isis

  21. Emily on March 29, 2020 at 7:02 PM

    Dear BB,
    I feel personally connected to your poem. Everyone goes through many struggles throughout their lives. It is what makes us human. As people, we are forced to fight through the hardship and to continue moving on with hope. This is something difficult to face. Thank you for sharing, this piece is very beautiful and inspiring. Do not give up!

  22. Shannon on March 30, 2020 at 1:54 PM

    Wow this piece is powerful. So simple and yet so poignant. Well done and keep writing.

  23. Syd on March 30, 2020 at 2:05 PM

    BB,

    “I AM” is a powerful statement. I think a lot of times we forget that even breathing is important and powerful. I love the rhyming in this poem. It was really smooth and I nodded out of appreciation a lot times. Thank you so much for leaving your footprint by writing this poem.

    Syd

  24. Emily on March 30, 2020 at 8:14 PM

    BB, you have accessed a higher part of your self and it shines through in this poem. We are beautiful because we are human, because we are imperfect and because we make mistakes. These qualities that are so often viewed as negative by unrealised souls are the opportunities to grow and to grow is to live. Thank you for sharing.
    Emily

  25. Angel Solano on March 31, 2020 at 1:10 PM

    This poem really connects to the true idea of humanity. The path we take is filled with mistakes, troubles, plights. There can be times where we feel a disconnect from this and forget that mistakes can happen and we should learn instead of punishing them. I understand the feeling that my mistakes are what help me get closer to my goal. It’s always makes me feel happy knowing that other people think the same way. I can feel the love from this and it’s truly inspiring. Thank you for sharing this.

  26. Noor Elhage on March 31, 2020 at 10:34 PM

    BB, this poem really touched me. It’s a beautiful and deep reminder that life is filled with pain, yet enduring suffering is how we know we are strong and alive. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and for inspiring me.

  27. Ian on April 1, 2020 at 11:03 AM

    Dear BB, Your words really strike a chord in me. I especially appreciate how you structured this poem to emphasize “I am because.” This repetition serves a purpose of developing your central theme of this piece. I encourage you to continue producing works involving this theme, and expanding on the idea about an individual’s value to the world.

  28. Haley on April 1, 2020 at 3:50 PM

    This poem was a comforting reminder of my own humanity. The idea that we are all connected by the experience of being a human. We all feel the same feelings and go through hardships because that’s what it means to live. You really made me think about how similar we all are, more similar than different.

  29. Bahareh on April 1, 2020 at 5:46 PM

    BB, your poem reminds me that I have a right to be here. We all do. But sometimes I can lose sight of that. I especially love the lines where you say “I am because I make mistakes/ To become better I am doing whatever it takes/ I am because I am not perfect in my doing/ Many failures have resulted in the goals that I am pursuing”. I may not know your story, but by reading your poem, I know that you have determination – and that will get you to so many places. And I really do believe that we are all trying to be the best version of ourselves that we can be. Thank you for sharing this, I’m so glad that I read it.

  30. Tyler on April 2, 2020 at 11:09 AM

    BB, this poem is very representative of just how aware you are of your existence and self worth. I can see that you have a strong grasp of who you are, what you can learn from, and what you can continue trying to do during the time in which you have been blessed to be given life. Living is never over until it is over. You have indeed left your footprint on this Earth, and I hope that you continue to leave more in a light that you deem positive. You know so much about yourself that many people have trouble understanding, and you could really enlighten them by sharing your thoughts with them–because you’ve definitely helped me reinforce my own existence and self worth. Best of wishes, and thank you for sharing your wisdom!

  31. Sean on April 2, 2020 at 12:23 PM

    BB,
    Your poem is a really good and really wise depiction of what it is like to be a human being. I really liked how it was very broad while at the same time being really authoritative about what It means to be a person. We are all humans not just because we are alive but because we love and we suffer. I actually took a photo of this poem because I found it to be so powerful. Please keep writing poetry! Some of my favorite poetry I have read so far in my life has been stanzas like these with short, but powerfully broad statements.

  32. Callie Craig on April 2, 2020 at 7:24 PM

    BB – this poem is truly a work of art. We are all a part of this poem. Not one person is perfect and you represent that in this poem. Thank you so much for submitting this and you continue to write amazing poetry.
    Callie

  33. Clare on April 2, 2020 at 10:57 PM

    I was really inspired by this poem. Every line was something that pretty much anyone can relate to at some point in their life. I feel that it’s important for you to know yourself and who you are, and it really seems like you have a lot of confidence in who you are as a person which is something that I aspire to.

  34. Xenia de Luna on April 3, 2020 at 3:14 AM

    BB, I loved everything about your poem! It’s simplicity but very deep messages truly left an impression on me and left me thinking a while about what I read.
    Isn’t it crazy how many things happen to us, how we fail but then stand up and succeed? And all of that because we are, because we live and because we want to prove the others wrong.
    How are you supposed to learn without making mistakes?
    You are coming out of this stronger than ever, you are such a strong, inspirational person and you are far further than lots of us.
    Ain’t nobody going go take that from you, you are a fighter and you inspired me to be one as well.
    Thank you!

  35. Christina on April 6, 2020 at 8:15 AM

    This poem has a powerful message. Making mistakes is part of being human. We live and we learn. Choices we make are always a part of us but we are also how we move forward and create good out of those choices as well. I enjoyed your poem very much.

  36. Jordyn Salmon on April 6, 2020 at 4:44 PM

    BB,

    Your poem is so truly powerful because of the realness you put into it. We are all products of our experiences, both good AND bad. I hope that you are able to continue seeing the silver lining, trying your hardest, and fighting for what is right.

  37. Sam Allen on April 6, 2020 at 8:49 PM

    This poem is so powerful, so expressive and so wholesome. I can tell you see the value in experiences and that you understand cause and effect. I really liked your last line, “I am because when I left the earth I left my footprint” and you are already leaving your footprint now with your insightful words. This was definitely a joy to read and I hope you continue to leave your footprint.

  38. Mar on April 9, 2020 at 7:00 PM

    Dear BB,

    I enjoyed your poem and the deep meaning that you impeded with your words. It’s is a wonderful ideology and way to express that life can be depicted in many different ways and people should not be discourage by the mistakes they makes because it can also lead to great successes. Fantastic Job! Thank you for sharing your powerful words!

  39. Emily U on April 10, 2020 at 2:01 PM

    “I am because when I left the earth I left my footprint” is by far my favorite line in this poem. It evokes so much power and emotion that it gave me chills. Your writing is beautiful. Powerful. Inspiring. Keep on writing from your heart!
    Emily

  40. Hayley Punjabi on April 13, 2020 at 11:13 AM

    Dear BB,
    I really loved this poem because it shows all of the elements that make up you. It is very honest and doesn’t just talk about all the good or all the bad that you’ve done. My favorite line is “I am because I stand up to oppression and resist”, because I believe people that speak up for what they believe in are the most admirable people. Thank you for sharing and letting us get to know a part of who you are.

  41. Tim Yeung on April 17, 2020 at 12:11 AM

    This poem is very powerful and empowering. It really gives shows the commitment and strength willing to do what is right. The poems shares a story of struggles and motivation. Great work, its awesome.

  42. Jayla Brown on April 18, 2020 at 6:41 PM

    BB this is very powerful. You are because you are human. This gives us a glimpse into your life, your thoughts, and your feelings. Never stop being you! Keep being yourself and keep making mistakes. Mistakes helps us learn. Sometimes being you may hurt, but associate with those who will love and support you in your lowest times, and they will help you heal.

  43. Keera on April 19, 2020 at 11:00 AM

    BB, this poem is beautiful and heavy with emotion. I can not imagine what your life has been like but your choice of words in this poem make me as a reader feel some of this weight. The repetition of the words “I am” is so powerful and moving. It creates a rhythm to the poem that takes the reader sort of through a series of life’s lessons that make you realize that one person is so many things and everything they’ve learned and gone through makes them the person they grow to be. Keep writing because this is amazing! Thank you.

  44. OJ on April 19, 2020 at 12:15 PM

    BB,
    This is such a powerful poem! It shows some of what you’ve gone through and learned from in your life. The repetition of “I am” is so moving and really helps the story come through. Thank you for sharing!

  45. Ryan on April 19, 2020 at 12:24 PM

    Very motivating and made my morning. Thank you!

  46. Molly Reed on April 19, 2020 at 5:28 PM

    Hi BB, thank you for sharing. Your poem feels like an affirmation meant to be repeated. It exudes confidence in yourself to be the best you can be. It was refreshing and I hope you continue to write poetry.
    MR

  47. Tiona Lancaster on April 20, 2020 at 12:12 AM

    This was SUCH a touching piece. This piece tells me that you are a person that has seen a lot, been through a lot, and overcome a lot. But it also tells me that you have not given up and you are still fighting because you want better for yourself. I truly understand and respect that, and I wish you nothing but the best.

  48. kingclaire13 on April 21, 2020 at 4:29 PM

    Dear BB
    Your repetition of “I am because” builds such a strong image of who you are and what you have been through. I think your writing will also help people understand themselves more too. You ended your poem with resolution that really brought it together. Good work:)

  49. Gabriela on April 21, 2020 at 11:18 PM

    BB,
    I love this poem. One of my favorite lines is “I am because I love and care”. Sometimes I feel like I have to be some amazing, perfect person who accomplishes all this crazy stuff and wins a bunch of awards to have worth. Your poem reminds me though that showing love and care is enough, that I’m valuable without medals. Thank you. This poem beautifully describes what it means to be a human, to be alive, to just be breathing. Keep up the good work.

  50. Izzy on April 23, 2020 at 2:28 PM

    Hi BB,
    Your poem is so powerful. You are a person who is full of intelligence and drive. The power you have to be able to reflect and say who you are and why is something that not a lot of people have. You are inspirational and leaving a mark.

  51. Michelle on April 23, 2020 at 2:33 PM

    BB-This is incredibly powerful. I feel the strength from your words and the cadence you give to them. From this I feel I am able to travel on some of your journey and feel your experiences. You write so beautifully how our experiences can shape who we are. And that we can continue to evolve many times in life by having many different experiences. Thank you for sharing your words.

  52. Hannah on April 23, 2020 at 2:35 PM

    This poem is so refreshing to read because most people go through struggles in life, but not a lot of people vocalize them and say that it is okay to make a mistake because we are human, and that is something that happens. Using “I am” in almost every line really makes your message powerful and allows your poem to be so great!

  53. Kelly on April 23, 2020 at 2:36 PM

    I love your choice of repetition throughout the poem. Also, your first two lines “I am because I am alive. I am because I have suffered and still survive”. Wow. These were such amazing words for me and they really stuck throughout the entire poem. Continue looking on life with this positive mindset and don’t forget that every struggle you go through just makes you who you are, stronger. Thank you for this.

  54. Allie on April 23, 2020 at 2:40 PM

    BB this poem is so encouraging and powerful. I love how you talk about every single thing that makes you, you – all the good and all the not so great. I think that your poem really emphasizes the power of each of our stories and how each of us have the opportunity to use all of life experiences not as something that defines us as good or bad or worthy or unworthy, but to use our stories as means to shed light and wisdom to those around us. Your story is powerful and your story is valued. Thank you for sharing a piece of your story. Keep on sharing!

  55. Meyber Alvarez on April 24, 2020 at 2:15 PM

    I really enjoy this poem as I feel like many people could be able to relate to it. It talks about hardships and how time after time you still continue to not give up. Many people endure hardships and it’s comforting to know that we aren’t alone. Through this poem I am able to understand how you are as a person as I’m able to read about your experiences and seeing what your outlook is for the future. You have your own goals and you won’t let anything get in the way of that. I find this poem to be motivational by having a message about continuing to try to get what you want.

  56. Ellen on April 24, 2020 at 3:25 PM

    BB, the use of “I am” is very powerful.

  57. Ellen on April 24, 2020 at 3:30 PM

    BB, I really like this line “I am because I am not perfect in my doing.” I think we can all say that and this line makes the poem open to everyone.

  58. Nick Lord on April 26, 2020 at 5:46 PM

    That really moved me. I am 27 and the phrase ” to become better I am doing whatever it takes” hit home. Thanks for sharing

  59. Yesica Benitez on April 27, 2020 at 1:47 PM

    BB,

    I love how you identify yourself. I think that your poem really captures the essence of what it means to be human. You identify yourself with someone who even though has made mistakes, you are still willing to leave your footprint in this world. Thank you for sharing this with us!

  60. Jocelyn Matos on April 28, 2020 at 11:45 AM

    This poem is very strengthening. I know that many can relate to the words that you have written. The thought I have always had was leaving this world with something worth remembering for a lifetime. Everything you say after the statement “I am” shows humanity, emotion, identity, and realness. Don’t stop writing and let your light continue to shine. I see you, you fully exist, and you are to be seen. Your not alone.

  61. Kali Benvenuto on May 1, 2020 at 12:04 PM

    This poem really reiterates the fact that every person on this earth is unique. We are all shaped by our own experiences, our friends and family, and our values. In the end, it doesn’t matter what anyone else is doing because you are you, and nobody can take that away from you.

  62. Cassie Scandalios on May 1, 2020 at 12:12 PM

    BB, this poem is truly inspiring. It is beautiful and extremely moving. Your words are so powerful and I hope that feel heard when you read the many comments above. Your words and your feelings matter and I hope that you know you have helped so many others by writing this poem. You are a true inspiration and I encourage you to keep using your words for good. I wish you the best of luck with all you do. Thank you.

  63. Vishal Garg on May 2, 2020 at 4:35 AM

    This is what i always try to found in my life-the idea of death.The ultimate universal true that no one can denied.Your work is perfect.Every line connect our life at somewhere moment we have suffered or will be suffering in future.
    Keep going.
    Love to read your next work

  64. Sara on May 6, 2020 at 9:25 PM

    Dear BB,
    This poem was so real and authentic it really made me feel the tie of human connection. It shows how we all make mistakes, feel unworthy, but are also caring and loved and this poem expresses the duality of human nature. It was so beautiful and powerful I hope to read more of your poems!!

  65. Diana on May 8, 2020 at 10:36 AM

    This is such a powerfully writing and beautiful poem. It really speaks on the struggles we all face and how they make us who we are. How every action, thought, kindness, and so many more facets of our lives, make us who we are. How we push through everything in order to keep going until one day we don’t. You have a beautiful narrative voice, please keep writing!!

  66. Ray Ryan on May 10, 2020 at 3:45 AM

    Hey, I really like the structure of your poem and I can tell you’ve been through a lot, I hope you’re doing okay and hope you never give. I like how cryptic the last line “I am because when I left the earth I left my footprint” but hope you’re referring this figuratively and wish you all the best, your poetry is very moving!

  67. Christine T. on May 14, 2020 at 1:49 AM

    Dear BB,

    Wow! What a great poem. The anaphora that you used in your prose really stands out and helps make the poem super unique. The emphasis of “I am” helps the reader connect more deeply with the subject matter and really makes everything more personal. I love the end of the poem where you talk about leaving a “footprint” on the earth– it really drives home the point that each of us are unique individuals on different paths but that we all feel the same feelings of love, hurt, and regret and that, regardless of our differences, we each make an impact on those around us and help shape the course of other people’s lives, whether consciously or unconsciously.

    Thank you for sharing!

    Best,
    Christine T.

  68. Rosa M Martinez on May 17, 2020 at 2:40 AM

    Very thought provoking. As you shared your story, it made me reflect on mine. Your self-assessment shows how you are mentally and emotionally aware of how you came to be. Thank you for sharing .

  69. Clifford on November 20, 2020 at 5:21 PM

    BB the realization that even though you made mistakes you are still human is well worded and thought out. I can tell that emotion was a key factor in this piece.

  70. Anne on December 2, 2020 at 1:01 AM

    BB, I love the section of your poem that states, “I am because I make mistakes To become better I am doing whatever it takes I am because I am not perfect in my doing Many failures have resulted in the goals that I am pursuing.” This is because nobody is ever perfect and everyone is going to make mistakes but those mistakes you make can push you towards your goals in ways you do not even realize.

  71. ken on December 17, 2020 at 9:45 AM

    You did such an amazing job with this poem! You really explained how you really felt and what was going on throughout your mind! You set the mood very well with repeating “I am”. It gave the poem more of a set mood. All in all you did an amazing job! Keep up the good work!!

  72. David on February 24, 2021 at 10:43 AM

    This poem was very motivational and inspirational. The repetition of “I am because” shows that each and everything we face, treasure, and grow through makes us, us. That we need to face the storms in life to water our growth, that we need the hardships to help us come out stronger, that we are who we are because of our lives course and that no one else is exactly like us. This was a great poem. Thank you

  73. Dhara Patel on February 24, 2021 at 10:05 PM

    I really enjoyed reading this because it describes life in general. I like the repetitive use of “I am.” I also like how each stanza is split into different aspects of life. Good writing!

  74. Zach Phelps on March 30, 2021 at 2:43 PM

    The his poem was great! I loved how you took a complex idea of “ I am” and brought it to simple terms in a hopeful and joyful way. I think you were really descriptive so the readers could use your imagery and imagine all that you were saying. I loved the line
    “ I am because I came and went
    I am because when I left the earth I left my footprint”
    I love thinking about the mark people can leave on the world and I think this was a beautiful way to put it!!! Thank you for sharing and writing this, I think it’s very inspiring, insightful, and well written!!

  75. Kylie on April 5, 2021 at 12:27 PM

    This poem is really simple and effective. You perfectly articulate numerous facets of the human experience over the course of the piece and, in doing so you continue to assert your humanity and dignity. In a system that often works to deny those basic principles this poem stands as a testament to the strength of your identity. The repetition and word choice here is also excellent. Keep up the great work!

  76. Devin on December 13, 2021 at 2:54 PM

    BB, When I came across your poem, I was immediately pulled in with the writing style you choose here. The way you use I am over and over again helps to really emphasize the overall message of what make you who you are. The establishment of that shows your individualism as a writer and a human being. The way you ended it with the line “I am because when I left the earth, I left the earth I left my footprint” really hit deep within me on how our lives are defined by the lasting footprint left on the world and how we want to shape our lives to affect how we leave this world.

  77. Cassidy on October 13, 2022 at 10:58 AM

    Dear BB,

    I really loved reading this poem because it made me self reflect on my own life, contributions, hopes, and successes. I loved your prompt “I am because…” and then each following line after it. You allow the reader to see who you are as a person, your values, your successes, and your hopes. The fourth stanza is my favorite, “I am because I made mistakes/to become better I am doing whatever it takes/I am because I am not perfect in my doing/Many failures have resulted in the goals that I am pursing”. I loved this stanza because it is very vulnerable and relatable. I can think of many times when I failed and pushed myself to learn from my mistakes to do better. As I mentioned, this poem is very reflective and made me self reflect in my own life.
    Thank you for sharing!

    Best,

    CB

  78. EH on November 21, 2022 at 7:46 PM

    BB,
    I love your structure of repetition throughout this poem. I also love the whole theme of “I am, because…” ; it’s a simple structure that delicately articulates what you believe makes you human. This theme reminds of Descartes’ famous quote “Cogito ergo sum”; or “I think, therefore I am”.

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