How can
Such a
Simple
Act be
So
Complicated?
We wrap our arms
Around each other,
Pressing close
As much as feels
Appropriate
For the occasion, and
Suddenly it’s
Mother
Father
Sister
Brother
Friend
Lover
Security
Community
Peace
Passion
Greeting and Good-Bye—
Everything it means
To be human
And vulnerable
And generous
And alive
Together.