when I tell you I’m an open book
I mean that my story has been written
in detailed chapters
and published for anyone to read
I may be introverted
but I’m not shy
there is no shame in me for the things I’ve done
the experiences that shaped this woman
into phoenix fire and thunderstorm
I know where I come from
and I want you to know too
skim my library for things that catch your eye
like the first time I fell in love
or the moment I realized what trust really meant
or the last time I danced in the rain
I’ll wait here while you read all about it
take your time
I’ll answer your questions afterward too
because no history book can cover everything
as long as time keeps moving forward
open book history [poem]
Larissa Lee 