Not everyone can say they carry a map of where they live wherever they go. This is one of the few perks that come with residing in the Mitten State: I can whip out my hand anytime and point to exactly where I’m from. For the past eighteen years, I’ve built a life in Grand Rapids, Michigan, a conservative, affluent community where everything seems perfect. For eighteen years, I’ve covered imperfections, censored thoughts, and allowed my light to be dulled. I may not have lived anywhere else yet, but the real-world is out there waiting -- and I’m ready for it.
