[Gabby Rivera]

Stefanie, this is exquisite. Like all across the board, absolutely beautiful. You have the gift. The writing spirit is within you and on the page. Keep honoring the spirit and yourself. This line is a perfect representation of the importance of specific details and how they uplift every sentence: Use a pot that holds memory. Whether its the pot you use to rinse your child’s hair during her bath or the pot she bangs on when she’s testing how loudly she can take up space. My only elevation note is to go through and take out some of those “Yous”. Most of them aren’t needed and the ones you choose to keep in will stand out. You can cut some of your sentences in half to make two really strong sentences. But really, you’ve got the magic and I’m so thankful you’re sharing your writing with us.