for what I want

I am not a bad person
for wanting to make the world smile,
for wanting the last piece of chocolate,
for wanting the envy of my enemy,
for wanting love from anyone who will offer,
for wanting the nicest clothes or
largest paycheck.

I am not a bad person
for wanting a healthy relationship,
for wanting new things to read,
for wanting to sleep in the mornings,
for wanting to sit around all day,
for wanting time to myself so I
be alone in my solitude.

I am not a bad person
for wanting a confirmation or an assurance,
for wanting a ten second hug,
for wanting a sensual kiss,
for wanting a solid friendship,
for wanting happiness and acceptance
in my position of life.

I am not a bad person
for wanting better than what I have,
for wanting to be stronger,
for wanting to feel approved,
for wanting to be emotional,
for wanting to love so potently and
wonderfully that nothing else
would matter.

I am not a bad person
for wanting,
for being selfish in my happiness,
confident in my values,
proud of my decisions,
undeterred in my words,
for I am a person wanting the best for myself,
and I deserve that much in this
regressive, hateful community
that blames my desires first,
instead working to fix itself.