The Impossible Fight

Written with Family Day (provincial holiday, third Monday of February), on my brain

We

As children learn

At a young age

To fight for

What we value

As important.

And yet

Society forces us

Into narrowly defined boxes

For our sexuality

And gender orientation.

Punishing those

Who are different

In any way.

Whether family

Or complete strangers.

Questioning ourselves

Until self-doubting

Becomes second nature

And destructive.

Turning inward

Withdrawing from others

Building walls

Where bridges should be.

Isolating ourselves

On all fronts.

And yet

Continue to struggle

In seeking

The love and respect

Of the people.

Who matters

The most to us.

Our parents.

Knowing

The emotional damage

Could send us

Into a dark journey

Of depression

Upon our rejection.

Willing to pay

The cost

At any price.

For their support

And love.

Author's Note

Written on February 14, 2014.