MACKENZIE

TENNESSEE| SERIES # 4

My name is Mackenzie Malay Williams, born and raised in Memphis Tennessee. I am the baby sister of all my mother’s children… but I’m going to save the Family Matters drama for another time. Because now it’s all about life with Mackenzie.

Who am I? Sometimes I have to look back and ask myself, who am I? I am a mother. I am a daughter. I am a sister. I am a friend. I am a Black Transwoman of color. And I am about my business. That means I am willing to knock down every door I can to get to the next step of my life.The person I used to be couldn’t imagine who I am now. I had to grab my heart back because God knows something had to change. When I came out at 16, I really thought the people in my life then would still be here. I’m now 21. I thought they would be happy for me, that I finally found who I was. But it was a rough road, but I learned a lot. I learned I need to be careful with my Ego. He is certainly to blame for the many, too many, lies and excuses it took before I could finally accept who I am.

I always thought to myself, if I talked a little different or a little louder, or if I spoke up when someone was wrong, then maybe I would find peace. But then I had to realize, if I walk a little taller with my head up, if I have confidence and love for myself, then what other people say doesn’t matter. As I grew older I started feeling different, seeing myself differently, and people noticed. Sadly, some people took it personally. But I tell people to try to get to know the new me, because it will be worthwhile. I just want people to see me smile. After everything I have been through, I am still smiling. I’m all grown up and trying to find more of myself. I learned that I don’t need your negative opinion, I’m sure not waiting for your okay, and I’m not apologizing for who I am. I know who I am, and I am brave.

I will never be perfect. But now that my heart is open, I can finally breathe.

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