Earthshine

Tonight

the new moon

is held most tenderly

in the old moon’s arms

I imagine the 

kindness of it

until I have to rub

tears from my eyes

because we need

both light and love

shining on us

if we’re going to

be all right

and this is not a world 

that believes in nurture 

over power.

This is a world 

that teaches you

to keep the shades drawn

so people cannot see 

your nakedness

that regiments touch 

between friends

into acceptable categories

where even laughter

and delight are 

examined 

in case they are

too passionate.

I am going 

to keep failing 

all these tests

I have already 

opened the shades 

to let the 

light in

and I’m going to

lean against you

every chance I get

and damn

the consequences.