simplicity.

hidden.

behind closed doors.

blinds shut.

lights off.

 

why?

why can’t we?

others can.

it isn’t fair.

 

holding hands.

a kiss

in public.

spotted.

 

berated.

beaten.

savagery.

for being us.

 

nothing is done.

this is the world.

this is life.

it isn’t right.

 

recovery.

different for everyone.

external healing.

internal struggles.

 

nightmares.

repeat.

safety?

normalcy?

 

we’re people.

we have feeling.

we love.

like everyone else.

 

we deserve.

affection.

love.

public displays.

 

without opposition.

without assault.

without a second glance.

… one day.

“To deny people their human rights is to challenge their very humanity.” – Nelson Mandela