In the Key of Us

by Mariama J. Lockington

“Everyone should have access to free art,”

It’s exhausting to be a girl sometimes.

But here’s the thing about growing up that I’m learning: You don’t always get to be free. Sometimes, you have to hold yourself back to protect yourself. Sometimes not participating is a way to stay safe.

My mom always said that art should make you feel alive and connected, no matter what kind of art you’re into—music, dance, visual art…,”

Ghosts are more like memories—memories you can’t shake, memories that appear in dreams or daydreams.

“Life is what you make it. Don’t forget to paint your own reality.”

I’m smart; I just don’t care as much about grades and doing things the way everyone else does them.

“A piece of art is never really done. You just have to get to a point where you let go and let it be what it’s going to be.”

Hiking always makes me feel alive.