The skin that cradles me;
home to my soul and
cage to my
joy
once writhed under the
pain of becoming

a woman.

"But you look so lovely in that mask." I hear.

No.

I’ve chopped off the silk
that once caressed my
cheeks
my neck
my

*******.

My eyes unveiled-
eyes that
speak volumes of truth.
A truth that no longer trembles
under a wavering tower
of poorly woven
lies.

…

I grew believing I had no choice.

I stand knowing I do.


Mother, father,


I am a man.