Each year we ask our classmates a straightforward, simple question taken from the lines of a poem by Pulitzer Prize-winning author, Mary Oliver. We share with you intimate and candid responses to this question, "Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?" Concept and photography: Tony Deifell, MBA 2002.
Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?
“Wow! You are so mature for your age!”
I have heard this comment for as long as I can remember, along with the question, “What do you want to be when you grow up?”
As a first-generation Nigerian American, I wanted to give an acceptable answer:
A doctor?
A lawyer?
An engineer?
“I will be an engineer!” I dutifully answered.
Because how do I explain to them my desire, my need, to just be a child?
I never got to be the kid who played without worry. Trauma has a way of leaving a lasting mark. It looks like always being the responsible one, never sitting with my back facing the door, and being hyper-aware of my surroundings and the tones of the voices around me.
Now, I want to create emotionally and physically safe spaces for those who don’t have them. I hope to forever nurture my inner child and let her know that it is safe to come out and play—take the trip, join the team, pursue the nontraditional career. And I will remind people to check on their strong, mature, and responsible friend who had to grow up too fast.
