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The Disrespect

 It has never hurt so much

To tell myself 

"This isn't good for you." 

I have never felt like so violently screeching 

Making raw, bulging cords

That might snap and gut

My throat 

 A sharp hiss

Of outward air

Being the extent of any scream I might still have inside 

my belly

And all my veins in between 

Because you decided to be the judge

Of what I deserved

When you knew you chose darkness

But called my light brujeria 

Gestured widely at the plants on my altar

As if I was tainting you 

Holding you here

When I was just gifting you 

What I've already given to myself

Acceptance, understanding, tenderness, a free heart

I will never regret that 

Like you will

Because you couldn't receive it.  



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