Presence

My mother and father are inside me
and they let me know
in no uncertain terms
they are still alive.

My angers are the same as theirs,
my fears, their fears,
but not my political persuasion.

I do like women,
though my father might have been gay. 
Sex drive I received from my mother
and her frustration.

I pity them for their isolation.

Neither had close friends,
who could visit unannounced
be made welcomed and fed,
and put up for the night.

There was so much pain.

I, too, grew up a loner, but made good friends,
have known my share of women
and received more love
than probably I deserved.

I have the sense to be grateful.

Indeed, I’ve been utterly changed.
Many friendships have endured a lifetime.
Amen. Amen.