It’s good to see you
Much has changed since we first met
But we remain friends
_
I knew you as Grace
You found your identity
You are your true self
_
As you transitioned
You faced the truth in people
They can be wicked
_
Cast out by your peers
Binary society
Where do you belong
_
Flawed society
A victim of ignorance
I wish I could help
_
Blatant mistreatment
Mistrust in authorities
Inescapable
_
Unfair obstacles
Inspiring resilience
I see your courage
_
Relief found in friends
Shelter from society
A community
_
Daughter and sister
A supportive family
Son and a brother
_
A light in the world
You love in spite of hatred
You’re my friend, PJ
I chose to write in haiku as a way to symbolize my relationship with my interview partner, PJ. We do not see each other often and rarely speak over the phone or text. Despite the few words between us, there is a lot of understanding and meaning behind our relationship. I have been friends with PJ for years and wanted to write about what I have seen and what PJ has told me about his life during our interview. The haiku format is also intended to resonate with PJ’s inclination towards music and art. PJ’s courage has been an inspiration to me and I hope this poem shows how strong and loving he is.