by Brandom Isham (Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe)
Saginaw Chippewa Tribal College
Student
I started my journey to fulfill my grandparents’ wishes of seeing me graduate. Unfortunately, they both passed on, but I never gave up on the promise that I made to them. Even though I didn’t get a diploma and walk at my own graduation, it still made me happy knowing I successfully got my GED and am now currently in college classes. They would be proud.
“I AM”
I am Resilient & Human.
I wonder sometimes about putting myself into others’ shoes.
I hear a ringing sound in my ears.
I see a night full of lightning and rain.
I want happiness.
I am Resilient & Human.
I pretend everything will be okay.
I feel my thoughts overwhelming me.
I touch the water and watch the ripples move.
I worry about failing.
I cry about the ones I’ve lost.
I am Resilient & Human.
I understand not all things will go my way.
I say it could always be worse.
I dream of better days.
I try to please as many people as I can.
I hope I didn’t disappoint nobody.
I am Resilient & Human.
Read more from the Elder Story Series here.
The College Fund is inviting TCU students, faculty/staff, leadership, and community elders to share their stories. Learn more here.
