Better than tulips!
Be gentle with me for I am but a fragile human
whose eyes may not see
the expression of your sexuality
as a sign of unsuppressed individuality
because I may be jaded or blinded by misogyny.
Be gentle with me for I am but a fragile human
whom is terrified to be
the open-hearted embracing destiny
to stake my claim on my personal history
as one not bound by mainstream society.
Be gentle with me for I am but a fragile human
whom is unafraid to be
every breadth and depth of clarity
a shining hope against disparity
standing human by human in equanimity.
Be gentle with me for I have stepped outside of me
the one they knew can no longer be
because who I am, I was born to be
I can no longer hide, I am finally free!
Be gentle with one another
treat neighbors like sisters and brothers
for as difficult as it seems
we all long to meet our dreams
so we fight the hard fight
sometimes not recognizing the hopeful light.
Be gentle of heart
but wild with your grace
May hate never play a part
in your peace or your faith
Be rich, my friend, with philanthropy
Be gentle, so very gentle, with this fragile human;
me.
Mare Martell 
Full of beautiful words and longing for gentleness and acceptance. Beautiful. Oh btw, i so love the red lips photo and the “better than tulips” caption made me smile. Thanks for this.
I like to add humor to things. I originally looked for two lips but when I found this, it made me smile too. Glad we could share one together.
Aha, thats’s fun. Just be gentle, hehe, kidding.
Linda Looney says: Your comment is awaiting moderation. May 9, 2015 at 3:22 pm Is this not the full truth of love your neighbor as yourself? Love others as I (Jesus/God) have loved you? Wonderful imagery in this piece!
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I was at an LGBTQ Youth Pride event where I presented this poem. I didn’t see your comment until I got home to my computer. That’s what happens when you go old school, old woman! 😉 P.S. Rev. Linda Looney is my mom and I love her very much.
Is this not the full truth of love your neighbor as yourself? Love others as I (Jesus/God) have loved you?
Wonderful imagery in this piece!