June 23, 1973
They said we couldn't be we.
It just can't be.
Why? We asked.
It's right there in black and white:
shouldn't, couldn't, CAN'T.
Others whispered, sneered and sometimes shouted
Backs are turned, doors of opportunity shut
Locked Out
we hid, faded, blended
Not to be recognized - nor to be noticed.
They said it wouldn't last.
shouldn't, couldn't, CAN'T
Each day our together assimilating into one.
Years went on, but the current didn't change
the waters ran deeper.
Words sometimes subtle, sometimes not
- unconscious bias - conscious labels -
jokes are refined, comments fine-tuned
Feeling confined...Few can be trusted
Another layer of armor built.
As I see people marching in the street
I hear the murmur of change
I know that sound, I've heard it before
The murmur needs to be an anthem roared
- breaking all sound barriers -
so everyone will take a knee
only then can I take a breath and shed this heavy coat of metal.
Finding My Voice As I Go, Because Silence Is Not An Option
(Thank you to the family and friends that have always accepted us for "being we." I hope you know who you are. Especially to Wanda and Brantley Hawkins, Kay Kennedy and Kitty Lawton Nielsen that were there for us in the early days and never questioned our love.)
two beautiful people who have stood way more than the mere test of time! absolutely beautiful
ReplyDeleteWe appreciate your kind words and taking the time to read my writing. Unfortunately this post doesn't indicate who you are. If you wouldn't mind, please let me know who you are. Thank you!
DeleteBeautiful....I don't know much, like the pieces between graduating in 1975 until we reconnected through Facebook... but I know you must have an amazing story that needs to be written! xoxo
ReplyDeleteThank you! Unfortunately with out you leaving your name, I don't know who you are. I am guessing you are someone that I went through high school with. If you wouldn't mind, please let me know who you are. I sincerely appreciate your encouragement.
DeleteYou are a beautiful couple and I and many others I am sure are jealous of the love that shines through you both when doing what you do. Your opening g statement is wonderful. I hope to be able to get Mike and I on one of your trips. Keep doing g what you are doing ,you bbn other are an inspiration to many. Love you both. Thank you for letting g me be part of this world derful trip of life.
ReplyDeleteYour words are beautiful. I would love to thank you properly, but unfortunately posting here doesn't give me your name. If you wouldn't mind, please let me know who you are. Thank you!
DeleteI don't know you well or your husband at all, but I admire you both.
ReplyDeleteYou are very kind. Unfortunately with out you leaving your name, I don't know who you are. If you wouldn't mind, please let me know who you are. Thank you! Your words are appreciated.
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