For Okin (who is more than a Presence on the Couch)

and when i was empty

considering my soul

afraid of 

tomorrows identification

hiding in the dark

sinking deeper into closets

so that i wouldn't be exposed

in a world that labels everything

you came along

and loved me

for being kind and innocent

and free

and you came along

and spoke of how great

it all felt

me liberated

you maintaining your immunity
you even spoke 

of how it should look in the future

date me forever

you made sure i didn't hate myself

or judge others

you mentioned the likeness 

of you and my kin

reminding me that this was a 

similar road

on a different street

and you encouraged me to write

said i was vivid with language

and wasting a talent

to go out and know thyself

pour the emotions 

on paper

'til i found me

and now i turn the table

on you

today

i feel guilty

and at a loss

hoping to give

you some 

of the you that you

so generously

gave me