Girlhood

For her First Communion, I brush her hair and wash her face.

She dances across the floor with a child-like grace.

Her smooth cheeks rosy and her soft eyes colorful.

She then turns and asks me, "why am I not beautiful?"

About The Author:

Mary Johnson is a young writer from California who has previously received Fresno State's Master of Fine Arts award at their 2023 Young Writer's Conference for her piece "The Beauty of the Everyday Life." She enjoys spending time with cats, as well as baking and roller blading in her free time.

Socials:

@m.4.ryy on Instagram

@m4ryzj on TikTok