Because

Because I have memories
and carry pictures with no putting place
in this my time. . . .

Because I have memories
of worlds I cannot see
next door to where I am. . . . .

Because I have memories
of love once
having been given. . . .

without needing to prove
that I am
other than what I am. . . . .

then I plead
for my heart to be opened

so that I can see Me,  too.

                                                                                       Painting by Claudia Hallissey