More Than Skin

I am weary of the hungry eyes

That see my body, not my soul

Of fleeting hands and whispered lies

That leave me feeling less than whole.

I’m tired of being just a spark

To light a fire for a night,

Of passion fading in the dark

While no one stays to greet the light.

They crave the surface, never deep,

A shallow swim, then turn away

My heart, a secret I must keep,

My dreams, the price I always pay.

I long for love that sees my scars,

That listens to the words I hide,

That finds its home in who we are,

Not just the shape I wear outside.

I want a gaze that lingers long

On laughter lines and hopeful eyes,

A love that knows where I belong

And holds me close when daylight dies.

I wish for hands that gently trace

The map of who I am within,

A heart that finds its resting place

Beyond the borders of my skin.

I’m tired of being just a need,

A moment’s thrill, a passing game

I ache for someone who will read

The poetry behind my name.

So let me be more than desire,

More than a body, more than lust

Let someone see my inner fire,

And love me deeply, truly, just.

Until that day, I’ll guard my heart,

And cherish all I am inside

For I am whole, a work of art,

And I deserve a love with pride.