A couple of years ago, the incredible poet Sarah Kay came to perform at my high school. I’ve loved writing ever since I could walk, so during my senior year of high school I decided to dabble in some slam poetry. I created this poem, trying to use sharp language and emotion like Sarah Kay did. Here’s a “short” poem that I wrote a while ago that mixes humor, but makes a strong point about self-confidence and allowing your voice to be heard. This message is even truer today than when I wrote it.

I literally have a “small” problem.

It may be hard to open your mind and see

Because that tiny problem is the adjectives

Often used to describe me.

The preoccupation about me being small

The jokes, they get old- I’m aware I’m not tall

I’m seventeen-years-old, but I’m just above 4 feet 10”

You’ve known me for years, but the jokes never end

“Shorty” and “Half-Pint” and “Lil’Bit,” and “Elf”

These are not the words I use to describe myself

Why not smart and funny, or talented and kind?

Why not try picking a description that I would not mind?

I know that I’m short, but you feel a need to remind me

Whereas I make an effort to treat others so kindly

I’d never say “you’re fat,” or “too tall,” or “so gay”

I was taught I should never treat others that way

But you think it’s cool to announce in a crowd

That Macy is short, and you say it out loud!

I have dozens of witty comebacks that I’ve never used

Because it’s not in my nature to leave your ego bruised

You clean up your jokes by telling me I’m “cute”

By this time, I’m done! Your conversation’s on mute

Because I like my size, despite what you say

I’ll try to explain it so you’ll see it my way:

I wear high heels around guys, and the shortest man feels tall

Quiet as it’s kept, they like their girls small

I stand in front for pictures, I’m offered help before I try

Even though my legs are short, my arms can reach the sky

I have lots of friends and family, and a job where I’m respected

I can’t think of a time where my size has been rejected

I volunteer, play piano, I’ve been accepted to college

You see, this small frame is just gifted with knowledge

I’m short, I’m petite, and yes, I’m just above 4’10’’

I promise, there’s no need for you to tell me again

Because this small body holds a rich and complete soul

Your feeble attempts to crush my spirit grow old

My heart larger than life and my eyes wide, unblinking

Your meaningless jibes only mean you’re not thinking

Because I like my size, even though I’m not tall,

When I analyze it closely, it’s your mind that’s small.