Wanting

Because I had lived with the tightness of 

Clenched fists

Fingers twisted—

Grappling onto false accusations about love and liberty

So now as I try to hold my hands open 

My shaken pals, upturned, facing the sun

I’ve learned to accept the heavy guilt, the burning shame

That comes with wanting, 

That comes with asking, 

Begging to be seen 

And as I try to understand and accept; 

I’ve forgotten the courage to live life with open arms.