That question “Who are you?” used to draw a simple answer from me: “I’m a mom.” It’s true, and it’s the role I hold dearest. But as I let the question settle in my heart, I realized my story is far richer than a single name. I am a soul ever growing, ever searching. I am an artist, drawn to the beauty in chaos and order. I am the one who finds solutions when others see only walls. And sometimes, I believe I am a chosen one, meant to travel the difficult roads so I can guide others. Motherhood has become the responsibility that stretches me far beyond myself. My daughter is not just my purpose she is part of my very being, a living thread woven through who I am. Our lives are inseparable, her laughter and questions shaping my days and anchoring me to hope. But the true heart of my identity, the self I have fought for and protected, is born out of authenticity. I strive to live honestly, to offer unconditional love not only to my child but to everyone touched by my life. In every role mom, healer, survivor, advocate. I am, first and last, someone who believes deeply in the transformative power of truth and love. In the stillness of the night, a question stirs, “Who are you?” it whispers, seeking truths in words. Once, my answer flowed, simple and clear, “I’m a mom,” I’d proclaim, with pride, with cheer. Yet as the echoes lingered, I began to see, My story’s a tapestry, woven intricately. A soul ever-growing, ever-searching for light, An artist in chaos, I find beauty in plight. I’m the seeker of answers where others see walls, A guide on the journey, where the heart gently calls. Sometimes I feel chosen, to tread paths unknown, To traverse the steep roads, where wisdom is sown. Motherhood, my anchor, stretches me wide, My daughter, my purpose, my joy, and my pride. A living thread woven, she dances through me, Her laughter, my sunshine, her questions, my sea. Inseparable we are, like moonlight and night, Her spirit, my compass, guiding me right. But the heart of my essence, the self I defend, Is born from authenticity, where truths never end. I strive to live boldly, to love without bounds, To offer my heart to all souls I have found. In this journey together, may we always aspire, To uplift one another, igniting the fire. -coco Moanikeala
