Have you not yet tried Japanese
yakiniku? Before you do anything,
go take a bite first. It’s summer now
and I’m looking into the pouring rain,
looking at the raindrops sliding down the window
like my tears slide down my cheeks when
I listen to the soundtrack Still With You.
Don’t listen to it
when it rains. It’s blue and will make you feel things
you have never felt before. It’s okay
to want things. And it’s okay to ask for things.
Watch movies. Perfectness is a myth. Mistakes
don’t mean that you failed. Don’t cheat
on your love for the busy Seoul city
with beach days in the states. Don’t let relaxation,
cocktails, sunlight, cool water touching your feet,
the crinkle of the sand, and margaritas fool you.
Or maybe let it take you for just a little bit.
I think about what it feels
to be in a submarine sometimes, next to no one,
a muffled silence and the peace of being alone.
Then I think of being trapped
in the depth of the unknown sea and I
snap out of my dreams. Pay attention
to the smallest details. Take photos in
your head. Remember that you like blue
and rain. In the end, do
what makes you happy. Write. Play soccer.
Imagine that you are a celebrity. Listen
to music. Keep thinking, keep experiencing,
keep loving.
You’ll be surprised where that takes you.
About the Author
Karen Lee is a junior attending Virginia Episcopal School. Born in South Korea, she is a young author who focuses on writing poetry and short stories
Instagram: @karen.le.e
