
Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash
no claim
never did I ask
to see me in a light I did not cast
to look at me from distorting angles
never did I ask
to think me better than I am
to believe me more evolved
never did I seek your adoration
no claim I made for power
nor authority over you
your autonomy was never under threat
your wild spirit never tamed
your fiery nature never extinguished
never have I been above
or below anyone else
your agency remained untouched
your power not diminished
it is why I deeply respect your No
and hope you accept mine too