Born Radiant, Grown Fierce

A tribute to my niece Katrina, whose radiant spirit carried her through childhood challenges and into a life shaped by strength, loyalty, and grace.

You entered the world with presence, eyes wide, laughter waiting, and a spirit that wrapped us in something louder than love. Even as a baby, you made us stop, watch, and smile.

We passed you between arms not because you cried, but because your joy was contagious, your giggles lit up rooms, and your silliness was our daily surprise.

You were a comedy in motion, a spark wrapped in softness, always finding new ways to make us forget our worries even for a moment.

But time, as it does, was not always gentle. When the grown-ups stumbled, you stood taller. When silence replaced stability, you held your siblings like a shield. You grew up while still growing.

I watched from afar, sometimes helpless, sometimes angry, but always loving you, the girl who mothered without being asked, who protected without applause.

Even when the world failed you, you found your voice, called out the truth, and made justice move.

Now you are radiant in new ways, standing on your own, working, living, protecting. Still Katrina, but sharper, freer, beautiful not just in form but in fire.

You are your sibling's and cousin’s fiercest guard, your friends’ strongest ally, a storm wrapped in calm resolve. And when people ask me about you, I just say: "She is my daughter from the biological mother, but with no patience for nonsense and all the heart in the world."

Author's Note

This is more than a poem—it’s part memory, part gratitude, and part reflection. Katrina is one of many children I helped raise with love, even during times that tested all of us. I hope her story reminds you of someone who rose in the face of hardship and learned to love harder, louder, and freer. Your reflections are always welcome.