When I came out,
It was because I met the love of my life
And I didn’t think
There was any reason to keep that secret.
I found her and myself in a one-two heartbeat,
A rhythm more natural than a cheesy poem can prove
So that’s not what this cheesy poem will be about.
When I came out,
I didn’t think twice about the
Wedding I’d have to replan in my head,
Casting two brides walking down the aisle.
Because who would propose? Do we both wear the dress?
Would there be church pews, an altar, a steeple?
Would my grandparents come?
Would it even be legal?
When I came out,
I didn’t think about whose last name we’d take,
Or if it mattered when we were in another country
Whose laws lagged behind our love.
Because what if one of got hurt or sick
Or into some kind of trouble
And according to their government and our IDs
Two women can’t make a family.
When I came out,
I didn’t wonder how I’d be a mom
When I want that kid to have her eyes and my smile
Or how much it would cost
Or if it was safe
Or which of my reproductive rights would be lost.
When I came out, I didn’t think about going out,
If I’d get a look for holding her hand,
Or a stare for holding her close.
I preemptively forgot
The awkward looks when we pay together
Or the explanation-induced pursed-lips smile
That graces the faces of people in random public places.
When I came out,
I won a proud, brave community,
But, at the same time,
I lost the luxury of heteronormativity.