Gabi Miller reads her poem, "Starry Night," for the Louisiana Words Tour 2026 at Cavalier House Books in Lafayette, LA.

  I chose not to lead the way or be the focus of intent yet here I reside, all on display for all to see as I repent I cannot be a perfect spirit as long as I am bound in sin I hence feel I’m deemed unfit for a fight I can’t, alone, win I pray with passion to see a promising path of grace where my people can live free and our holy father, embrace Give me strength not to fall on grievous acts against you help me hear my lord’s next call and know your words, alone, are true I follow where you lead my heart I give myself to absorb your love and from evil, set myself apart I patiently await your guidance from above

Is my skin too dark for this job? Do I have the right smile for this gig? Am I the right height for this show? Is my hair too coarse for that hat?   My body, my eyes Imperfection I despise These questions, these lies I’m all caught in compromise   Should I change up this stanza? Don’t bring attention to the art, fool Wait, am I a boy caught in beauty? No, you’re a girl caught in brawn   The voices from my pen speak Many of them care what you think Both friends and foes, I seek I hope I have what it takes not to sink    Do they see my pretty insecurities? Should I ask them what’s my worth? My insides brought outside for auction I want to hold my breath, but can I?   My cab to tomorrow has arrived I’m not sure I can pay the fare On life, I don’t think I’ve thrived But do you really even care?