I was supposed to be a butterfly,
but chronic illness made me lose my wings.

Instead, all I got was a butterfly flush, not even the standard rash,
stamped in red across my cheeks and my nose,
like a red, neon sign of rejection
that I can never be able-bodied again.

How can I fly, if my wings are clipped?

But I guess I’ve learned that flying
doesn’t just have to be physical;
my heart will spread its wings and fly
into the hearts of many,
making a difference in the way I know best,
through the words and love spoken by my lips.

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Kelly Esparza (she/her) is a chronically ill writer and editor who strives to uplift disabled and chronically ill voices. She holds a BA in English and a BA in Creative Writing from the University of Arizona. Her short fiction, essays, and poetry have appeared in various literary journals and anthologies. Her short story, “Destiny Says,” was a Pushcart Prize nomination. She is also the editor-in-chief of FLARE Magazine, a literary journal that publishes literature and art about chronic illnesses, disabilities, and mental health by those who experience these for themselves. You can find out more on her website: kellyesparza.wordpress.com and follow her on Twitter: @Kelly_Esparza7; Instagram: @kelwritesbooks2, and Bluesky: @kellyesparza.bsky.social.