I
It came, dark on the white cotton.
You were startled, then happy.
I was stunned.
I didn’t really think it would happen to me.
II
The preacher said ‘redemption’
He said ‘forgiveness of sins’
but I heard ‘crucifixion’
God fixed me all right,
like a bug on a specimen card
I was fastened, nailed down, blood
dripping slowly
III
The secret I can’t tell and can’t hide:
I want to be a boy.
running too fast,
yelling too loud,
wearing my brother’s clothes
These are my sins and I’m paying for them.
zade