We are viewed as children,

treated like violent schizophrenics,

and expected to act more mature than adults.

We are told we are ok

just the way we are

and that what we feel is wrong.

We can’t escape adults,

we can’t escape each other,

and we can’t escape ourselves.

vital pearls welling up from the fissure
a gasping promise made corporeal.
sharp, bright, overwhelming
but it will be gentle
and no less sweet