this is not a phase
this is not something I will regret
– being fully myself –
no.
you do not know better
when it comes to my ability to perceive and judge
my own inner world
and how to engage with this greater culture,
even in all its risks and dangers..
do not project obliviousness or insanity onto me
just because you don’t understand.
I am fully aware of the world we live in.
I am standing
as I am
precisely because I am looking
all that you’re afraid of
straight in the eyes..
and I’m saying no.
this stops
with me.
