I’ve never cared
who you are
or who you love
as long as I can
call you my friend
I understood
Stood up for my friends
for what matters
just because it matters
I understood

The day came
when I heard the words
that other parents
dread
Mom I’m gay
I heard the stories
first hand
I was read the news
first hand
Threats became real
hearing that he had tried
to join the ranks of
bullied to death
and I UNDERSTOOD

Then came the day
when I was talking
to friends
people I see every day
people who tell me
their problems
the bad
the good
the just talking
we share
The day came when
I shared
Proud,
I met my son’s boyfriend
they are so alike
wonderful to see
I shared
and I saw
And I REALLY REALLY UNDERSTOOD

The look
The one that says
hate
evil
defective
I saw the look
directed at me
through me
at you
and the pain
like a physical slap
across my face
drew breath
and now
I not only understand
but a mother called
to protect the young
now I am involved