Sometimes
They dream of memories unknown

As if their soul cries for a present, past
Alternative.

They want to dream of refuge
                                                                   Solace
But their mind-heart cannot let go
Of a past that never was

A past of closeness
Wrapped amidst warmth
[Family]

Even in their dreams—sadness.

An ever-present odd creeps in
Unlike
Unusual
Queer
Even in their dreams

They feel the pains of nostalgia
For a past that was not.
Was never.
Will never.
Be

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P. Shannon-Baker is a multitexturous teacher, writer, researcher, and artist based in Savannah, Georgia, USA. On Twitter: @pshannonbaker.