AS I AM

Poetry
Written By Farah Lawal Harris

It feels like a miracle, the way music can transport one from depression to joy. I woke up feeling blue. I dusted off the record player and sang and danced loudly to Prince’s classic album, Purple Rain. That album of pure magic.

I recently saw a clip of Alicia Keys’ interview on the podcast, R&B Money. She mentioned how her song, “Like You’ll Never See Me Again” interpolated Prince’s chords in the song, “Purple Rain.” I then played her album that features that song: As I Am. The title of the album inspired the poem I wrote today:

AS I AM

By Farah Lawal Harris, 2026

As I am,

I am a sticky, pink peony awaiting bloom,

thought-heavy head needing support,

reaching toward God.

When I open, my beauty even

strikes me with awe.

As I am,

I am a thorny blackberry bush,

extending my reach

with intention and speed,

My thoughts transform

into delicious, sweet treats.

I’m known to fight cancer

and all sorts of things.

As I am,

I am a curious creature with

pearls as teeth,

a rose quartz heart,

skin black tourmaline

with snow jasper dreams,

a selenite mind,

and tiger’s eye creativity.

I am as I am,

in breezy transformation as

I am consciously free.

Farah Lawal Harris

Farah Lawal Harris is an artist and breast cancer survivor who inspires people to overcome obstacles and be well. Through vulnerable storytelling, writing, and theatre, Farah makes people feel less alone and more able to tap into their personal power to be their best, creative selves.

https://www.farahlawalharris.com
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