it echoes in my head
as i reminisce on our night
just a few days ago
when you pleaded why i
flinched from your touch
and for the first time
i found myself willing to
tell you about the wounds that
i hadn't kept on display
the ones that were too shameful
to teach an important lesson
to my younger counterparts
so i kept them buried,
they were mine.
i guess i thought you'd
run from me too
to my shock, you thanked me
and grasped my hand
and said i know you are strong
he held my hand, caressed my head
and said "it's me,"
"it's always been me"
"you don't have to be afraid"
"we can do whatever you want,
whenever you're ready."
and this time i could close my eyes
i tell you, this means everything