When I did this monologue in class, I was so nervous. Not nervous about the performance (a little), but mostly because of the content. The subject matter within this monologue--racial tension between the Black and Asian community--holds a special place in my heart. As I was searching through the book for a monologue that speaks to me, I found "Swallowing the Bitterness" by Anna Deavere Smith. It is a monologue about Mrs. Young-Soon Han, a former liquor store owner, and her relationship with the Black community after the LA Riots in 1992. I can never imagine what it was like going through turmoil--both physically and emotionally. The sense of loss, confusion, and never being able to find justice. It was something I can always relate to. So right when I read through this piece in "Extreme Exposure," I knew I had to work on it. I did this with only one-take, and I'm super proud of myself! :D I recorded many more takes, but felt the first one was the most raw. I hope you enjoy it! -- Will write more of the backstory of why & how I developed an interest in this subject matter later. For now, I have to run to work!