i don’t have the ocean
in my eyes
or fire in my hair.
i was given
her dark traits, and
though they paint my face,
my heart is safe
because you have taught me
it is not my sacrifice
to this world.
i do not need
a phenotype to know
you are a part of me.
every time i’ve hidden
my mind from the world,
you’ve reminded me
sometimes it is okay
to scream.
every time i’ve wanted to fly,
you’ve stood behind me
and watched me go–
you believed i would soar
long before i knew i had wings.
let it be evident
through all i create, that you have
watered me well.
Silenticel 