Say My Name Poem by Riley Choma

My name has always left a funny taste in my mouth.
When uttered by others it's felt nothing short of foreign.
Even on paper it's never quite felt like mine- not beyond the squiggle I put through it whenever I signed.
However, I am told that it is mine, and while I am not in the business of doing what I am told…
It is the only thing I have ever known.
From the moment I could hear, I was being taught to associate every fiber of my being with this word.
How I felt, what I liked, what I did, how I looked, and how I sounded, all needed to be attached to a name.
‘Me' unfortunately wasn't good enough- not specific enough.
So they called me and I let them.
I can't help but wonder if one day I will meet someone that will call me and leave me feeling at home.
Someone that will call to me and leave a less bitter taste in my mouth.