I’m not giving up right now.
A middle aged white man calls on a Friday, letting me know I don’t have a chance.
Let it go, this won’t go well for me.

Wait, what?

Finding that spot within myself, where my ego jumps ship.
I’m not giving up simply because it’ll be hard to prove.
I’m not giving up because it’ll be hard on you.

I’m not giving up, but I understand why so many do.
I’m not giving up because I know my truth.

There’s no holding me back,
I’m not confused anymore.

Despite being scared, exiled by friends.
I’m standing up for myself.

When I testify on Monday, I may be scared.
But I will not back down,
I will set the bar here.

And when I am mocked and told it’s not a big deal,
I will think of myself and every one in this place too.

As lonely as it feels, I know I cannot be alone.
I will hold up my stop sign, and trust in myself.
I am not stopping at green,
Because I’m learning to go.