Finding My Voice

The moment was sitting solo in the back of the classroom for independent time. I couldn't tell you the teacher's name—nor my classmates. I don't think I felt it was important at the time, considering it was a matter of time before I made my way to a new school. And I knew the statistics of kids like me. Still, I liked this solitary time—reading time. And this classroom had a small trove of books donated to the class library.

It was in this very moment that I stumbled onto Jacqueline Woodson's 'Locomotion,' and it felt as if the universe itself had orchestrated this discovery in my favor. That particular year was a whirlwind—marked by constant changes, frequent school moves, and the search for belonging. Unbeknownst to me, this book would rise above its status as ink on paper, transforming into a steadfast guiding star in the midst of the stormy night sky that is my life.

As I stood on the precipice of yet another transition, "Locomotion" quietly slipped into my world. Lonnie Collins Motion's story, like mine, unfolded in a world in constant motion. Lonnie's poetry acted as a reflection of my innermost feelings, a sanctuary for my thoughts, and an echo for my unspoken uncertainties.

Within the verses of Lonnie's poems, I discovered a way to give voice to the blend of exhilaration and unease that new beginnings bring, as I encountered new schools, new losses, and newfound loves. His lines bridged the gap between my raw emotions and the blank canvas of paper, which extended deeper into my social communication. With each syllable, Lonnie painted a vivid picture of my own hopes and fears, joys and sorrows. His words created a safe harbor where I could unravel the intricate web of emotions accompanying my thoughts, finding solace within the rhythm of his verses.

Jacqueline Woodson's storytelling artistry wove Lonnie's narrative seamlessly into my own. Through Lonnie's eyes, I learned to not only adapt to the changes but to embrace them, to recognize beauty in life's subtle corners, and to gather strength from the depths of my own voice. Lonnie's journey mirrored my own, as I navigated the intricacies of friendships, faced uncertainties, and navigated the roller coaster ride of growing up. It was all the more fitting that this happened while I was coincidentally in fifth grade myself.

"Locomotion" was more than a book; it was an awakening to the potency of genuine prose. For someone like me, it was the most authentic way to communicate—reaching into the depths of my soul. Lonnie's verses stirred a passion for writing within me, urging me to explore my own creative depths and eventually find my voice.

Reflecting on my journey, I now realize that "Locomotion" didn't just alter my perspective; it equipped me with the tools to navigate life's twists and turns. Jacqueline Woodson's words emerged as a reassuring whisper in the midst of turmoil, teaching me that even amidst the chaos, I could find my rhythm and make sense of the disorder. This book remained a steadfast companion, offering guidance, empathy, and the knowledge that I wasn't alone on this voyage.

This reflection serves as a testament to the enduring influence of literature. Though my introduction to "Locomotion" occurred during my fifth-grade years, its teachings remain a steadfast echo as I traverse the ever-shifting terrain of adulthood. Lonnie's verses unveiled the enchantment woven within words—their ability to mend, unite, and ignite inspiration. Armed with this revelation, I embark on the journey of writing my narrative, forever shaped by the stories that converge with my own.