Why do you smile?

Their rough hands sully our bruised skin

Taking from us the joy of our sacred bondage?

Why do you smile?

Your eyes blackened and dull with reluctant acceptance

Your pail blood staining the concrete floor just for saying “no”?

Why do you smile?

That it hurts me to see you this way

My hands frail and trembling, reaching out for you?

Why do you still smile?

Holding me close, telling me everything will be alright

As the cracked, stained tub flows with crimson red from our clasped hands.

I know now why you smile

And I fear I won’t ever be able to thank you.