i hold my cross in hand,

proud of my Father and all that He’s done for my growth

but i hold it behind my back,

for no one but me can know.

the liberals gather around me

as i stand eager and unafraid.

my hand ready to greet them all

but they swat it away as i stand helpless and betrayed.

their eyes hunt me down like a lamb;

they take notice of the cross on my necklace.

they stab me with the dagger edge of their tongues;

their words are hurtful and reckless:

“A HOMOPHOBE!”

“EVIL!”

“HATEFUL!”

i force myself to be silent,

even if their lack of respect is distasteful.

my cross has been lit on fire

 and i stand alone.

then and there, i make the decision

that my children will stay at home.