I live in darkness.
And that is all I have ever known.
But I would dare to argue that my world is far
Brighter
And far
Warmer
Than the world of those blessed with sight.

You see, I’ve never
Had the luxury (or perhaps the temptation)
To judge anyone based upon their appearance,
For, to me, every person I ever meet
Is defined by the tones of their voice
And the intentions of their words. 

And I’ve always
Had the luxury (or perhaps the escape)
Of protection against
Critical stares or belittling glares
And the superficial prejudices that shred
The delicate hearts of young flowers
That were meant
To bloom.

I live in darkness.

And I have learned to know and love
By each intonation and articulation
By each texture and curve and edge
By each intention, each action, each goal.

And I am known and loved
By the same criteria
For sight unto the outside
Is never part of the judgment.
And I have found that, often,
The closing of eyes

Opens the heart.