On the Come Up

by Angie Thomas

When I was eight, she played Nas’s Illmatic for me and said, “This dude will change your life with a few lines.”

Basically, I tried to ignore my sexual awakening by imitating the Rock.

I’ve always had this theory that God is a sitcom writer who loves to put me in ridiculous situations.

I first have to thank my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. It has been quite a journey, and I wouldn’t have made it this far without you. Thank you for carrying me and keeping me. Whatever you want to continue to do through me, I’m yours.