She has been dealt a hand of high difficulty. Her parents suffer from psychological disorders and struggle with drug abuse. She said it's more like a community of people raised her, or a strong group of women. Despite the latter statements my friend Rachel does not seek reparations from the world and she does not seem victimized or like anyone owes her anything. She wants to give back. Rachel wants to give kids what she received and values highly: knowledge and inspiration. She wants to help the youth express themselves through writing and poetry.
In high school Jeff Kass and his wife Karen Smite gave Rachel affirmation for her poetic abilities. They gave her more strength than anyone to endure the shit that life can deal a young girl each day. I believe they helped Rachel to build upon her sense of self and they boosted the growth of the woman she is today.
Rachel says she's care free and a free spirit but she doesn't see a clear definition of those terms. She is always willing to pursue her own ideals and wherever that may take her as a young woman. In my opinion she defines the previously ambiguous terms with her vibrant personality. This person and personality is loud in her writing and poetry. Rachel has won slam competitions with her poems and even spoke out for a rally at the state capital; she believes that harm is being done to education in Michigan.
I am more than lucky to know this strong young woman and call her my friend.
