On this dreary, wet, cold night, Coco had a homework assignment to “free write” for 5 minutes.  And this is what came out.  I was not planning to post it.  My sister came over for dinner and I shared it with her.  She and I shared similar teenaged (charmed, beautiful, blessed) experiences – years apart but in the same place.  Through teary eyes she said ” you should post it.”  This one just felt intensely personal to me, but I asked Coco.  “Should I post it?”  Coco’s repose was “ABSOLUTElY.”  I’m not sure why Coco wants this shared.  She’s tired today and still eating her dinner and I just don’t want to pester her too much.  But from previous conversations with her, I think I know why she wants it shared.  Coco wants the world to know that not being able to speak doesn’t mean she has nothing to say.  Not being able to control her body doesn’t mean she doesn’t have the same feelings in her body as everyone else.  This piece was a poignant reminder for me.

TEENAGER DREAMS

I DREAM OF TELLING SECRETS OVER CUPS OF COCOA IN FUZZY PAJAMAS TOWARDS MIDNIGHT

I DREAM OF FOOTBALL GAMES AND POM POMS

I DREAM OF YELLOW STARS OVER OPEN WATER SPARKLING WITH BONFIRE REFLECTIONS

I DREAM OF TEST DRIVES AND LEARNERS PERMITS

I DREAM OF JUMPS OFF THE BRIDGE

HOLDING HANDS

STRING BIKINIS

I DREAM OF FIRST LOVE

FIRST KISSES

I DREAM OF PROM DRESSES AND CHIFFON LAYERS

I DREAM OF FRIENDSHIP AND ALWAYS LOVE