Prologue

Our lives are like vast, ever-evolving canvases. Each stroke, a decision; each color, an emotion; each layer, a chapter of our existence. The question isn’t whether we are art, but rather, what kind of art we create through our choices, experiences, and reflections. In the Appalachian heartland, amidst farmers, coal miners, and moonshiners, my story began. It’s a tale of survival, perseverance, and transformation. My life has been shaped by the rugged landscape of rural Kentucky, by a family’s determination, and by my own relentless pursuit of knowledge and self-discovery. From the early days of battling a childhood illness to becoming the first in my family to attend college, my journey has been a tapestry of trials and triumphs. Moving from my little town of Willow Creek to the sprawling campus of State University was like stepping into a new world—a world filled with unexpected challenges and profound lessons. The poems scattered throughout these pages are not merely words; they are fragments of my soul, like this one:

Recently, I had my mirror cracked actually it was shattered…
What I thought I saw in the mirror wasn’t as it appeared to be.
The mirror sometimes lies to us or distorts the truth.
We are actually afraid to appear naked in the mirror.
The mirror like TV adds 10 pounds and so on…
So, the mirror delivers bad news when we least expect it.

Each one born out of personal experiences and encounters. They represent the moments that have defined me, the trials that have tested me, and the resilience that has sustained me. As you turn the pages of this book, you will walk through the various chapters of my life. You will see how each experience, no matter how small or significant, has contributed to the painting that is my existence. This is not just my story. It is an invitation for you to reflect on your own journey, to recognize the art within yourself, and to appreciate the masterpiece you are continually creating. Are we art? Perhaps the better question is: what kind of art are we destined to become?