Personal Essay #5

You don't know me. All you know about me is the generalizations that you made when you saw my photo. Sure my complexion may be darker than what you would like, but the color of my skin is not what makes me, me. You don't know me. You might hear my native tongue and feel disgusted because it's not what you want. No, I cannot speak your language but I try everyday to impress you with my knowledge. It isn't enough that I want to share my love, a body of truth is more deserving of your attention. You don't know me.

I learned at a young age that people will make assumptions and categorize me without my consent, I don't need that from you. Welcome me, engage with me, don't hate me because I didn't grow up reading the same "book" you did or dressing the way you did. You don't know me.  I might not celebrate the same holidays that you do but I can appreciate observance of them. You don't know me. All you need to know about me is that my love is genuine and pure. You will know me.