REBEL

we’re conditioned to aspire to live in a way that the world deems “normal.” as we grow from childhood into adulthood, the desire to fit in becomes all-consuming, especially in our formative years. not only that, but we also internalize so much from family, friends, and media - some of which are more detrimental to our free thinking than others.  

while i’ve always been a bit of a black sheep, I tried to fit in whenever I could. I didn’t want to draw too much attention to myself. I wanted to be “normal” and do “normal things.” but over the past few years, especially the last year, i’ve found myself questioning some of the beliefs that were taught to me many years ago. I found myself, more than ever, rejecting previous views that were shaped for me by everyone around me, except for me. I started to question everything. I started to REBEL. 

in my rebellion, I found enlightenment. I was able to discern what I thought vs. what I was told I thought. the world around me looked different, the personalization of that world became much easier, and my individuality was now my most precious attribute. in a sense, I found my freedom, and that is something that once you attain, you can never look back.

to the contributors of this issue, thank you for being vulnerable enough to share your art and let us into your world. we see you. we hear you. we love you. no matter how big or small your personal rebellions are, they matter, because they have shaped YOU. to the readers of this issue, I implore you to take in these stories and sit with them. let them inspire you for your next rebellion. and lastly, to EVERYONE: you will never influence the world by trying to be like it. remember, none of the greats followed the rules.

cheers to rebellion.

love,

keiarra mclean