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It's My Turn

I have reached a place in my life
I know who I am
I know where I am going
Nothing is going to stop me now
I’ve stepped through the darkness

It is my turn to shine
and shine I will
in vivid colors of life
wearing my colors proudly

A daily struggle for my sobriety
makes me a stronger woman
Using was an easy way out
I am up for any battles
that come my way
I honor myself now

This honor will shield me
from the insecurities of others
trying to maintain a hold on me
to satisfy their egos

Nothing or no one will bring me down
I’ve been there, done that
I have found an outlet in writing
It gives me a place to vent and create

I have found people that respect me,
my work and my capabilities
I know I have a lot to learn
my mind is open and with pen in hand
I will continue to grow in
this journey of self-discovery
I wear no labels
I will be forever evolving
You can be with me or against me
that’s your choice
No drama for this mama
I must remain true to myself

My voice is mighty
My spirit strong!

A contest entry

Can you relate???

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Comments

1 - 58 of 58

  • swanridur
    June 25, 2007
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    I'm sure your words speak to a far reaching audience who can identifye completely with your words. I love it when I come across someone elses work that expresses so well my own life...it kinda makes you realise you belong. Keep shining like a beacon to all those who are lost. Respect!!


  • I-Am-Custard
    May 29, 2007

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    This has a fantastic message and is on the whole well executed, but there were a few things that annoyed me.

    One was the word 'me'... I mean, how many times does that word come up in this poem? I'd count, but I'm not that petty, a lot though.
    Though it's wonderful to see such female empowerment, that repetition makes it quite selfish in it's portrayal, and I like to think that this is an 'everywoman' poem, so you're alienating the very people you're speaking out to.

    This line 'I must remain true to myself' would be better if it were 'I WILL remain true to myself'... the 'must' implies difficulty and a chance of failure, 'WILL' is stronger.

    There is also NO punctuation in this, and therefore no rhythm to keep me reading to the end, which in a long a poem can be a problem.

    I adored the line 'No drama for this mama'... it had a wonderful disdain for 'drama' which was thrilling to read and in my head I could see a large black woman in red lipstick snapping her fingers at me, which was lovely.
    And also 'to satisfy their egos', that was a wonderful line.

    There are some real gems in here, you just need to bring them out, I'm glad I got to read this.
    Thankyou for entering.


  • CherylAnn
    May 13, 2007

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    WOW Powerful

    you shine on girl...You stand strong and true to yourself.A good powerful write you have penned here,gaining self respect is hard to do most times,and bless your heart for you have done it...
    A blessing to have read this.
    Blessings
    ~Cheryl~

  • kantstopwontstop
    May 7, 2007
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    WOW girl your right we do share alot of the same thoughts...this spoke volumes to me....thx


  • soldiersoul gold member
    May 7, 2007
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    I AM INVINCIBLE BITCH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! mild mannered WHOOCHI SMITH by day INVINCIBLE BITCH by night...stalking the deserts to battle the villainy of DR.DRUGGY and his minions NEEDLIN n POPGOBBLER...she keeps the world safe from ADDICTION...look up in the sky...its a bird...its a plane...its... damn im glad im layin on the ground under WHOOCHIs skirt lol


  • eyesofanangel524
    May 5, 2007
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    Take a bow my friend, this is amazing. You have found love within yourself and will never allow another to take from you what is yours..and rightfully so. Beautiful piece..strong and vivacious..just as you are. God bless you, for you are an angel...Best of luck in the contest. Dawn

  • Cinnarry gold member
    May 2, 2007
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    Rock the F*ck ON Whoochie mama!


  • patsoldcat
    May 2, 2007

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    loved this a lot

    vivid and flowing the determined walk to show the world and all that you are important, you are strong, and you have arrived,
    great job.
    lots of luck


  • onofognol
    May 1, 2007

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    I choose with you

    I get the message, excellent job whoochi, more power to ya. you sound secure in your recovery, and that is an inspiration to others, kudos


  • Frozentearz
    April 28, 2007

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    This poem is full of a spirit that is climbing,
    may you continue to fly with only sunny day's.
    Love and Light
    Frozentearz


  • Idle Mind Wondering silver member
    April 27, 2007

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    A strong and hard message filled with well earned self respect. stand up, walk tall and never look in the rear view mirror.
    great job!!!


  • Endeavor gold member
    April 26, 2007

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    Excellent


    You did well to make these words here

    Our professions in them selves can become a cure

    You have many reasons for pride

    Rick


  • ChildeOfChaos
    April 25, 2007

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    This holds an inspirational message for those that haven't quite made it to where you are yet. Your voice is strong and beautiful in this piece, it really lets you shine. Awesome.


  • Wayne Leon Learmond
    April 19, 2007

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    Brilliant

    STUNNING WRITING HERE. I LOVE THIS. BE TRUE TO YOURSELF AND YOU CANNOT GO FAR WRONG. YOU ARE ON A JOURNEY, A JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY. WHO KNOWS HOW FAR THE JOURNEY WILL LAST? BUT YOU ARE ON IT ALL THE SAME. WRITING IS SUCH AN OUTLET FOR MANY PEOPLE. YOU MAKE NEW FRIENDS - SOMETIMES FOR LIFE - THROUGH WRITING. WELL, YOU GOTTA FRIEND HERE, IN ME. Keep writing. This was really really good.

    Wayne


  • Luna Tique Fringe
    April 18, 2007

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    ,,come through loud and clear!!

    wow..Awesome..I'm speechless..It just makes me feel good to read..and what a strong new voice shouting:
    'look at me, now I'm free'....that's what it says to me


  • slipperssun gold member
    April 11, 2007

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    wow you have done well to give it up... i hope that you can always stand strong and feel better in yourself... well done on a fantastic write
    cheers
    Jen


  • Sgt B
    April 10, 2007

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    I can relate

    I have found people that respect me,
    my work and my capabilities

    That does tend to help.

    No drama for this mama
    I must remain true to myself

    Man ain't that the truth.
    I enjoyed reading this peice. Thanks for sharing.


  • Laura
    April 10, 2007

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    wow this is such a strong poem so full of self respect and achievement well done i think this is amazing
    laura xxxxx


  • darell
    April 9, 2007

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    I'm a believer!

    Wow Whoochi! What a powerful declaration
    of one's independence and knowledge of self.
    I was thoroughly blown away by your candor
    and transparency. Its a blessing to be able
    to look at yourself in the mirror of your
    own eyes and love who you are.
    This was an extremely refreshing poem.
    In fact its much more than a poem.
    Its a tribute to loving one's self.
    Everyone who reads this should be inspired
    to lift their heads a little higher.
    Love themselves a little more.
    God bless you sweetie. You've discovered
    something priceless. Bravo!!


  • rite
    April 9, 2007
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    If one is capable of writing poems with such words and made the decission to do so, then some point in life must have been reached at wich the scope of awareness has become so large that this can be said without hesitation or fear. Congratulations with that! Thank you for creating and sharing. Take care,

    U


  • Naridill gold member
    April 6, 2007

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    Awesome Affirmation, very strong sticking and powerful!!!
    This poem lets off a beauty from within the words you write, you have a lovely talent there and I'm glad you purshue it!!!


  • Poetic-Theorem gold member
    April 6, 2007

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    POWERFUL!!!!!!

    This is simply a terrific write. It may not only be an outlet for you but also a huge inspiration fo others. Unforunately, we live in a word that is filled with hate, criticism, inequalities, and those that places lables on us.

    This write make me proud that you stand up for yourself. i have many limitations due to some physical disabilities. Last year depression took over my life. I finally said NO MORE. I am happy with who I am and proud of who I am.

    LOVE THE WRITE!
    Take care
    Bo


  • Whispering Wind Moderators member
    April 6, 2007

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    WOW JUST PLAN WOW

    To find ones on voice and then to become that voice:MY VOICE IS MIGHTY MY SPIRIT STRONG...well said and with determination, it gave me goose bumps...You are a wonderful writer and I love how you speak from your heart


  • soulfultia gold member
    April 4, 2007

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    Uplifting

    Your spirit rises as one reads the words so carefully yet vibrantly penned. I have seen you grow, quickly I might add on this site, you have become a little beacon of light here and I for one hope you are here too stay This was a wonderful journey you took me on and I just love when someone invites me in...allowing me to see a glimpse of who they are as a person, not just a poet. Wonderful uplifting write, keep up the awesome work!! ~Tia


  • Grimlathak
    April 4, 2007

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    Stands up in witness

    Oh can I relate! Being off most substances and away from teh party scene for several years now I too have found myself through deep self retrospective and established moral code of what I will and will not do with minimal compromise. It's surprising how much you find yourself when you do this.

    Your spirit and all its strength shines through brightly and with nice diction throughout this write. Excelent choice in outlets you have chosen and I thank you for sharing such creative arts here on AP. It's official. Your on my favorites!


    • Whoochi gold member
      April 4, 2007
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      TY Grim....

      TY for your wise and gorgoeus comments...am humbled to be on ya Favs.!

  • InBetweenThoughts
    April 3, 2007

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    Very beautiful in its own way. It would seem you have come far through life's travels and have survived to push on as only the strongest will. May your journey take you to places of the unknown. Let your mind wander and your heart go and your writing will flow as if it is an extension of your hand. True writing is being able to move others Have a beautiful day, Ken IBT


    • Whoochi gold member
      April 3, 2007
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      ~~~TY Ken, you have touched my heart & stirred my soul~~~~


  • honey bear
    April 3, 2007

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    although many miles away ,know that i am very very proud of you and hope that you can feel a little of the love that comes your way across the sea each day.thank you fo rsharing this with us it is a very wonderful testimony for others that face this battle that you have overcome


  • KenjiStar81
    April 3, 2007

    Edit | Reply
    This is a very impresive write and I am proud you have hit a good point in life and it seems as though a fog has lifted and your able to step on a solid ground after a long battle in un sureness..

    Good for you and I hope you continue to shine..


  • cirrusfire
    April 2, 2007

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    A wonderful work of words and ideas ... the finding of self, of truth and understanding. I love how you point out that "you can be with me or against me, that's your choice" As so often in life people forget that we are all in this together ... it would seem it is easier to be with a good idea, but there are too many that refuse the chance.
    Great write, and inspiring for me today!


  • cirrusfire
    April 2, 2007
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    Love it

  • darrylblacksr
    March 30, 2007

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    INSPIRING, POWERFUL

    Yes I can, life is all there is and there's nothing beyond that except for illusion. Life is really a simple concept that we as human beings, makes it so complexed and rough...

  • Rajaram
    March 30, 2007
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    Great Work Whoochi,

    Good to see such a wonderful poem here. Keep it up.


  • Inside and out
    March 29, 2007

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    Bravo!!! Your poem reveals your intellegence, strength and determination and a renewed sense of self. Well done dear poet! Keep on penning!

  • poet43
    March 29, 2007

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    Go girl

    Love it when you go head to head with the world and its nay-sayers.


    Your voice is mighty, your spirt strong
    To yourself is to whom you belong
    Face the foes, the ones that would try
    To curb your freedom to soar on high

    poet


  • aliceramone
    March 29, 2007

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    bravo!...you go girl...excellent write...can be used as inspiration for a newcomer or anyone...tour writing is really evolving...great job


  • Floorboards
    March 29, 2007

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    brilliant!!!

    aw whoochi! this is fantastic, i can feel the strength, honesty and determination shining through in this one, really really impressive and quite moving i must say, well done sis, on the poem, and on your positivity, i f***ing love ya!
    bro' alex


  • Ativan
    March 29, 2007

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    I enjoyed this poem and I am happy for you! ... A very enjoyable highspirited poem. Also, perhaps try including examples that people can really relate to. I think that would be a big + to this poem. Well, good job. Loved it! Keep Writing - I keep reading!

    T.T.F.N
    Ativan


  • DJ Harley silver member
    March 29, 2007

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    this is lovely whoochi, you did a good write, i love it, I know who you are, a freind, sister in Christ to me. you are very special, and we all meed a vent at time of we can explode.

    JOhn


  • JeannieD Hunter gold member
    March 29, 2007

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    Bravo!! You go girl!! You ARE strong and can do anything you set your mind too. You have people here at AP would care and support you. Hang in there! I am proud of you!

    Jeannie


  • Bedroom Eyes
    March 29, 2007

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    I'm glad you've found yourself, and nobody is more proud of you stepping out into the light than I am. Enjoy it. Wear your bright colors and shine in your spotlight. I honor your strengths, as I always have, and take great pride in the accomplishments you've achieved.

    The insecurities that you speak of are really the knowledge of what is right and what isn't. If you believe that it's ok to remove your wedding ring (figuratively speaking of course) before going out with friends, then by all means knock yourself out. If that's whom you wish to be, then I respect that and hope that you find someone who is willing to accept you keeping secrets. I wish you well Julie.

    • Whoochi gold member
      March 29, 2007
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      I have no secrets Greg, it is all in ones perceptions...nothing to hide here! I am ME, deal with it! It is all in ones perceptions, the truth, and would appreciate no bashing....ty

  • eyesofanangel524
    March 29, 2007
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    This is written with great strength and conviction. You can feel it within every word penned. Hold on strong to this remarkable woman. Never let anyone take you from ou again...for your place is to stand tall and proud and guide. In your strenght and recovery you may provide others with their first step. Keep penning fellow poet

  • pruedence
    March 29, 2007
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    WONDERFUL..so positive and uplifting..I felt your strenghths within this poem with every word you typed...BRAVO...to find yourself is such a wonderful feeling..to keep it that way is the hard part...but I think you got it right...writting is my venting tool also..without it my head would be so full of just shit!
    Great Write, thanks for sharing


  • Cerulean Sunrise gold member
    March 29, 2007
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    W00T! You go girl! impressive affirmation. Well done. Well said.


  • SongByrd
    March 29, 2007

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    Be strong

    This is a wonderful piece. I hope that you remain strong. Thank you so much for sharing.

    Always pen from the heart and you shall never write wrong.

    ~SongByrd


  • Bazza
    March 29, 2007

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    A woman at last.

    A wonderful story of how you have finally evolved into an independant woman. Now you can sing from the mountain tops and you will be heard for no longer are you another mute voice in the wilderness of human suffering. Arise proud woman and have your crown placed upon your head !! ..... Great work and very inspiring .lol, I can get carried away, but with a poem like that ??? that's what they are for ..
    Bazza


  • light insight silver member
    March 28, 2007
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    Profound

    I have been there,done that
    I have found an outlet in writing. As have I! Your voice is mighty and your spirit strong. I acn feel it as I read these words. The only person that can bring you down is YOU!!! I love your spirit and you have my prayers, be strong and don't look back. God bless, Rhon!

  • light insight silver member
    March 28, 2007
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    Profound

    I have been there,done that
    I have found an outlet in writing. As have I! Your voice is mighty and your spirit strong. I acn feel it as I read these words. The only person that can bring you down is YOU!!! I love your spirit and you have my prayers, be strong and don't look back. God bless, Rhon!


  • Pure Thought silver member
    March 28, 2007
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    Yay, for the road behind...

    and for the path you have now chosen.
    Well written strong statement.


  • Cannonsfire
    March 28, 2007

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    No matter what our struggle in life is, whether a substance or alcohol or just the struggle to find out who you are, the only thing that is a constant is 'stay true to yourself', always do what makes you feel not what others tell you to. If we can wake up each morning and look at ourselves and say I am glad I'm here then the world always will seem a bright place to be to you my dear, you have found the light up the road and are following it strongly. Love, C


  • Papyrus
    March 28, 2007

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    amen sista!

    --this is the best poem I have read today! It gives me strength...although I don't exactly honor myself...part of being a Christian is being selfless, but complete in Christ...in Him I am strong. Thank you-Papyrus


  • Loud Whisper
    March 28, 2007

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    Definately for you!

    I don't know you fellow poet, but as i read this stanza

    "You can be with me or against me
    that’s your choice" I had to smile and actually said out loud "I am for you!".

    Such inspiration and determination within these words. I don't know where you came from .. but I am proud of you for getting to where you are.

    Wonderful flow and powerful message within this piece. Superb!



  • tomisb
    March 28, 2007

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    Keep the focus on yourself. Be clear what is you and what is not you. Most of life is not personal. If it would of happened wether you were there or not, if they feel that way about everybody, it isn't about you. The great thing about this is you can choose who you take personally and for how long.

    You choose. Everyday. In everyway. I choose, after I broke my leg from being hit by a car, to find a thousand things everyday to thank God for. No matter how simple or how grand, I said thank you. I walked into a job that paid three times what I had been making. Amongst other things.

    You are magnificent. This Nelson Mandela quote says it all.
    Our deepest fear is not that we are Inadequate.
    Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.

    'it is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us.
    We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant,
    gorgeous, talented, and fabulous?
    Actually, who are you not to be?

    You are a child of God.
    Your playing small doesn't serve the world.
    There's nothing enlightened about
    shrinking so that other people won't feel
    insecure around you.
    We were borne to make manifest the glory
    of God that is within us.
    It's not just in some of us; It's In everyone.

    And as we let our own light shine,
    we unconsciously give other people
    permission to do the same.
    as we are liberated from our own fear;
    our presence automatically liberates others

    Nelson Mandela

    Love, Tom B.


  • Jadeheart 41
    March 28, 2007

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    Excellent!!

    This is just Beautiful my friend!! You Go Girl!! to get past these things and come into your own is remarkable!! I admire your courage and strength! keep writing my dear for you are well on your way to blow them away!!


  • Debbysmiles gold member
    March 28, 2007

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    This is quite an affirmation and yeahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh for you !!!! I am so proud of the choise you made to honor yourself and live. Wonderful piece. Blessings. debby


  • Ur Supergurl silver member
    March 28, 2007

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    well done. i feel as if i should say that i am proud of you.. you have overcome so much..i applaud your strength and your courage. you are an amazing person and i wish you the best in all that you do. well done, babe. great write!! -Sable-

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