overpopulation.
individuality.
what we see and what we desire.
not intertwined but standing at opposite ends of the room
refusing to comply but agreeing to live in a world of differences.

you. I know you.
you who sees the world
as both too big and too small.
can you change the world?
will you fall into oblivion or
live on in the books?
the choice is not in the heavens,
but in yourself.
conquer what you can
and I promise,
you will make a difference.

you. I notice you.
you can be whatever
makes you happy.
yes, this overpopulated world is large,
but I recognize you.
you are important to me.
you will defy the odds and conquer this world!
you created this world.
do not let this world
recreate you.

Lauren Cueto ’17