By Malix Campbell.  Illustration by Rosie Olang

Today,
I am a child different from others
I represent shame and fear for mom and dad
I have to be careful about what I do and what I say

Today,
I can’t go to certain places because my friends will be there
I must resign myself to misery
Because I was born in a body that wasn’t mine

Today,
At night, I cry myself to sleep, and start my mornings with tears
Because for me, every day is a challenge
Night and day, I have to face the world

Tomorrow,
I will be the pillar of my mom and dad
I will be the pride of my siblings
I will be someone my friends can rely on
I will be a blessing for my country because I fought

Tomorrow,
I will be the one who fought in spite of mockery and humiliation
I will be the one who took risks even when my life was at stake
I will leave, go far away so as not to see their faces covered in shame

Tomorrow,
I will make a difference, for myself and for all of us
I will be praised by all
I will be proud; proud of you and proud of us.