Just make it through the day Mary

When the holidays don’t feel yours

For too many Queer folks, the holidays are not about peace, but distance, disappointment, and depression.

Folks who can't be with their families, or worse, who are with them but still apart. Who never return home, even if they travel back to where they grew up. Who have to avoid politics and wars, hide jobs or lovers. Or folks who have family and lovers they would give anything to be with, but who can't afford to.

Social media photos of reunions and meals can feel impossible.

You are not alone, even if you are by yourself. Keep your head down or stand up for yourself, but just get through the day.

Some holidays may not be for you, but the Queer calendar will have future dates for your gratitude and grace.

-L

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From POST, my debut book of poems and essays.