One day when I was in 7th grade –
Going to Forest Oak Middle – where adolescents behave,

I was a walker to school and I’d arisen a little late.
Needed to arrive at school on time to keep admin trouble off my plate.

I distinctly remember cutting across a large field
That nearly confirmed Jason and Freddy Krueger were real.

It’s was a very risky feel but had I been late in time
A letter was coming home and Moms would be in my behind.

So I forged ahead in my girl shoes named CANDIE,
With blades of grass between my toes I arrived quick and felt dandy.

I don’t think they’re #AllTerrain shoes… but they brought me through.

And there across the forested brush was my middle school.
I saw the social clicks: the populars, the jocks and the fools.

Just slightly forward of all of the clicks – towards the curb,
I saw my beloved crew, a pack of Honor Nerds.

And in that pack true concern was active,
I was spotted crowning the forest by Katrinna Mathis!

This was my best girlfriend from the Forest Hill hood,
She yelled out: “Oh God Qui – Get out of the woods!”

GET OUT OF THE WOODS? I suppose it’s the right call.
However I made it to school in record time with no stall.

My feet were a mess – I was delivered by “the walk.”
When traipsing through the woods – I’m focused; rarely balk.

Sometimes life is hairy and sometimes you’re the captain.
I challenge you to rise to the occasion – and forfeit saving cute fashions.

Forego the extras, the boo-boo, the ungroomed -ish…
And find your way through it all. I believe YOU’VE GOT THIS.

I had THAT – the day Kat saw me coming out of he woods.
Though being cared for, if I wasn’t prepared for — my best friends acknowledgment was good!

She didn’t want me out there! She didn’t want me lost.
I’m Qui
Encouraging you on your journey. Be the captain. Walk #TheWalk.

Pray for and Exercise