You like me better scared?

On my knees begging for help?

I’ve already wasted so

much time stuck in that place.

Slowly and then all at once

the monsters lurking

receded.

The cement blocks suffocating

like Giles, 1693 Salem,

were lifted and

the whispers, taunting

have been expelled.

Finally, I can breathe.

Now you want me to go back?

I’ve never liked it on my knees

and I’m not shrinking for anyone.

*

weeks blurry wrapped

in a flurry of how did

I get here

and where do we go now

*

do we splinter

break and fall separating

the accumulation of

six years and five lives

*

divided up

into neat little boxes

of trivial half truths

in cages we built

out of fear and insecurity

*

or choose a different way…

sweet evolution releasing

expectation

replacing the traditional

straight-laced vanilla

with lovers

shared breaths

open hearts and minds

possibilities abound

acceptance within reach

body, mind, and heart

finally one.

*