Mariam

“But this is how life work--the women who would be capable mothers too often don't want kids. And too many of those with children probably should have just sat that one out. Luckily, most were in between.”
― Tayari Jones, Kin

“We come to love people in many ways. Much is made of the burning love that hits you like a smoldering remnant of a star hurled down to earth. Yet this is not the only type of love any more than the camellia is the only flower. There is the love that blooms from decency, and from that love, passion.”
― Tayari Jones, Kin

“No matter who your mama is, or how long she’s been gone, you can’t help but miss her. When you are born, she marks you with her milk, even if you never tasted her breast. That’s not hoodoo, it’s just the way the body and the spirit come together to make you a person.”
― Tayari Jones, Kin

“Her bravery stands beside her fear as she bites down hard on her lip.
She’s already hungry for flesh.
“I’m glad it’s you.” Just this morning, she
held my knife. She didn’t want to hurt anyone then, or now. “You’re gentle
with them.”
It’s not true. I’m gentle when I am afforded it. She takes in a
long, shaky breath. Holds it, savors it. Closes her eyes and must feel the
burn in her lungs that screams life. Then, she lets it go.
“Please. I’d like
something gentle now.”
― Racquel Marie, If We Survive This