“I AM BORN” (the series)
boyfriend went to jail.
! 5 Therapist: Okay, take your time, and lets start there.
*Short story written and based on the life of Javannah Davis.
Latavia falls back into her chair as if a gentle nudge pushed her back. She slowly drops her head, and speaks.
Latavia is sitting in a metal, beige folding chair in a circle
Latavia: It started on my birthday one year. My “boyfriend” at the time convinced me to have a tattoo party.
of strangers. Each one sharing a story of their life's experiences. One after another Latavia listens empathetically as each person shares moments of their lives when led them to this group therapy session. It was then
The story brings us to Latavia’s living room. A party celebrating her birthday is going on. Latavia is on the phone.
Latavia’s turn to share. Therapist: Latavia, you okay? I see how this is affecting
Latavia: Quan where are you? I have people here asking where the tattoo artist is!
you. Are you okay with telling us a little about your story, and what brings you here?
Quan: Yo, calm the fuck down. I told you I’m coming. I had to take care of some business.
Latavia gently wipes away the tears from her eyes with the rough tissues she took from the generic Kleenex box sitting on a table in the middle of the room.
Latavia: Okay, but you said that 4 hours ago. I had to get my mom to take me and get all the stuff for this party YOU wanted, and you not even here!
Latavia: Yeah, I think I’m ready. I just don’t know where to begin. Its so much. Therapist: Well Just take your time. This is a safe space.
Quan: Listen, I told you I’ll be there! I was thinking about your stupid ass to make you some birthday money! Don’t call me again; I’ll see you when I pull up!
You can begin at the point you came to realize there needed
(Call ends)
to be a change made in your life. A time healing began for you. Latavia stares out into nothing as if in a trance. Her mind is
Latavia is clearly frustrated and excuses herself and goes to her room. She falls across her bed; tears running down her face. Her cousin Zahara enters the room shortly after.
flooded with the traumas that have led her to this moment. Latavia: The very first time I knew things needed to change in my life was a month before my first ever
Zahara: You alright girl? Latavia: No, but I’ll be fine.
