Making Meaning out of Struggle: The poetry of Tyesha Cooper-Dykes
By Brianna Sinclair
When I first read Tyesha Cooper-Dykes’s poem, “Life Is Not Always Easy,” I was inspired by its positive and encouraging message. I liked how she talked about the challenges that we all face in life, but she also reminded us that we can still keep going no matter what happens.
I recently had the pleasure of speaking with Tyesha and learning a little more about her, her writing, and what inspired her poem. Tyesha is a sophomore majoring in Human Services, and her goal is to become a social worker. She told me that she really enjoys helping people and making sure they feel happy and supported. Outside of school, she enjoys dancing, singing, learning new things, and spending time with her family and friends.
I asked her what inspired her to write this poem. She explained that she got the idea from her own life and some of the challenges she has experienced. She talked about how sometimes she feels like certain situations are difficult to face, but she eventually finds a way to overcome them or cope with them. I thought that was really meaningful, because it shows that her poem comes from a real place.
One line she said was especially important to her: “So I will keep moving forward, no matter what I face, because every step I take is part of my own journey.” I really liked this line because it shows her determination to keep going.
Tyesha described her poem as inspiring, and I completely agree. I think she did a great job taking her own experiences and turning them into something other people can relate to. Her poem reminds us that life will have difficult moments, but we should never stop moving forward.
Overall, talking with Tyesha showed me how powerful the creative process can be. Sometimes our personal struggles can inspire us to create something meaningful that can also encourage someone else. And honestly, I think that is what makes Tyesha’s poem so special.
Life is Not Always Easy
By Tyesha Cooper-Dykes
Life is not always easy,
and sometimes we may fall.
But every new beginning
can teach us through it all.
There are days filled with laughter
and days filled with tears.
Each moment leaves a memory
that stays with us through years.
So I will keep moving forward,
no matter what I face,
because every step I take
is part of my own journey.
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