As a young girl growing up, words became my voice when I couldn't speak or didn't know what to say. Poetry, in many ways, saved my life and kept my sanity. My fourth grade teacher gave me a journal and told me I should write my poetry down because I was good at it. That simple act changed my life. It is my hope that my struggles and my perseverance will inspire other young women to keep pushing forward. Life as a young girl entering womanhood can be very hard, but you can make it through! Journey with me from the age of ten into my early adulthoodmy family life, school, and even my first relationships.