(Written for Transgender Day of Remembrance)

The background a tired gray, the dull pain of a town long forgotten. The heartache of loneliness, unfinished dreams, and sore muscles, where familiarity reigned as the main source of comfort.

In this unexpected scene she appeared. A flash of red, like an angel, just for a moment. The sun peeked out from the clouds, lighting up her red dress and loud voice, startling everyone around her. Her red lipstick and heels, atop smooth brown skin and a flowing laughter and wit. Her tall body, sharp tongue, and strength never an option; it poured out of her like the sun that created her.

Alas, God’s light was too bright for most eyes. In jealousy and fear, they stabbed at her heart, trying to stamp out the unknown. Though not even in death could they diminish her color. Blood spilled out on the street, the bright red liquid of life.

Once again clouds moved across the sky, but not before she left her mark on all hearts. She was a spark of the brilliance that will shine through and lead us one day.