A few weeks ago, I performed a monologue about sex-trafficking at Just(is)Love. This is a performance event that educated individuals about different kinds of slavery all over the world. My monologue shared the story of a young teenager from Bellingham who was coerced into sex-trafficking. To state the obvious, it was a very difficult story to share.

These were my thoughts after the performance:

I was scared to tell your story.

My nerves jittered and I wondered

could I make it seem real?

The monologue, to me, seemed like forever,

but after just four minutes of my life,

I walked off the stage,

and people told me what a nice job I’d done,

acting.

We cleaned up, put the plastic chain away.

My kind parents drove me home

To my familiar and comfortable house.

The make-up scar washed off easily.

I drank tea, pet my dog, talked with my brother, said goodnight.

Now I’m drifting to sleep in my own

safe bed.

I wonder where you are tonight.