we embrace the tyranny
(it seems the simplest
thing to do!)

simpler than
embracing eachother

we write our future down
on 3 by 5 cards
which we keep hidden
in the back of the closet
so they will not be discovered
by anyone

we preserve our "love life"
in pornographic images
we have pictured
and captured
on our digital cell phones
or on the internet

we know to not infuriate
the tyranny
with claims of our humanity

we have "wised up"

"it is better to live on your knees
than to die on your feet"
we repeat
incessantly

we have no honor
but what good is honor?

we live in fear and shame
but what is wrong with fear and shame?
nothing

our suffering is eternal
just like thoughts of heaven

we embrace the tyranny

what else can we do?