That one and only thing you want to yell in the middle of the night.

      That one and only thing you feel when she calls you a “disappointment.” 

      That one and only thing on your mind when you hear “she’s my daughter.” 

      That one and only thing you repeat as you find out about Yelena Griorieva’s murder.

      And Layleen Polanco’s death. And Matthew Shepard’s case. And your friend’s beating.

      That one and only thing you want to say to the boy who’s been harassing you for a year. 

Email Anna-Dmitry at [email protected].