Silver Circle
Sophia M. Echavarria (SEED Public Charter School, Class of 2004)
A little silver hoop, he didn’t want anything too big, just enough to make a statement.
Metal in a scar still sensitive; like a bullet wound.
In his room with the play station on CD mode stirring out what sounds like Counting Crows, his finger nails make a soft click as he reaches for it testing for pain.
Eyes are lost in its iridescence from countless alcohol swabs, smelling like a new box of staples, a chain link fence.
Slippery and waxy from the oil in his skin puts the bitter taste of metal in my mouth, my teeth hurt.
Feels like I could slide through the hoop, get lost on the other side.
Find new facets in which to see myself, my world.
A dictatorship in sterling. A manifesto in gunmetal.
I
I do my best work in the afternoon, that’s usually when I wake up.
Being with people most of the time is important to me because I’ve been bored with myself.
I share easily, if I trust you.
I’m talkative because I want you to remember me.
I like people to like me when I need them.
I value my time when it’s running out.
I have a goal, I think.
I admit my mistakes only when the pride price is low.
I believe the world is wonderful, when it’s not pissing me off.
I respect others, with good reason and evidence.
I believe I control my life, but only its pace.
I can handle any situation, when it’s mine to handle.
I’m okay asking for help, so long as it’s needed desperately.
I have what it takes to succeed when I want to succeed.
I always set priorities, when it’s for someone else.
I “forgive” easily, if I like you.
I believe people are good to me, I can’t always tell, though.
I use technology to help me because it doesn’t judge me.
I can do without friends when I’m dead.
I’m prepared most of the time if I know what’s going on.
I like myself when I’m pretending to be someone else.
I get angry easily when I can’t figure it out.
I am confident…until it comes to boys.
I’m a “last minute” person because I work harder under pressure.
I act quickly to resolve a problem that could swallow me up.
I like to try new things, but only with a reference.
I’m shy most of the time because I don’t know you people.
I like to be alone most of the time because you can’t lie to yourself.
I like being late because it flips time the bird.
I’m a good listener, if I like what you’re saying.
I get things done when they’re important to me.
I get along well with most people who don’t have their heads up their asses.
I make my own decisions, when I can.
I know what it takes to succeed; cash.
I plan to finish, down the line.
I feel like I’m a loser when I hit the snooze button.
I believe in a higher being, but not church.
I have a god, sort of.
I communicate well on paper.
I recognize the good in others, in a less shallow mood.
I am motivated, rarely.
