To Hold a Hand

To hold a hand

Not just with your palm

But with eyes and ears and lips

That bustle to form song

To hold a hand that has been shattered or bruised

Confined by stereotypes

“It’s not allowed here

To be confused”

It is simply a hand

It has neither curves nor teeth

Only creases and stories

Things that define, not complete

With the words that ricochet out of mouths

Not taking a moment

To think

To hold a hand

To feel colors flow through your lips

And not listen to someone tell you to identify with

What is between your hips

Claim the eyes that see difference as eyes of your own

Defend yourself

Defend what is known to be home

To hold a hand

Like a wounded bird

Give it time to spread its feathers

Give it longer to be heard

Look into the beady eyes

Select this box

Just a few questions left

Will you hold a hand?

Will you consider each secret kept?