Holding Hands

Holding hands in public

An overt sign of affection

Also, of sexual orientation

For the love of another

Is on display

But if same gender

A history of secrecy

Hid such emotions

In a closet of self-doubt

From being found out

About love outside the box

Of society’s orthodox

Until the veil was lifted

From the hidden self-inside

That bursts with joy and pride

In a jubilation for all to see

A Pride parade, Pride flag

The Pride month of June

And throughout the year

Holding hands is routine.

This article appears in June 2, 2023.