unXceptable

He loves me, except.

Except when I speak up, or speak out,

or I stay silent and introspective.

I offer guidance he didn’t ask for,

or sit still and look pretty.

I run wild and free alone,

or I beg for attention.

I don’t check in before I buy my groceries,

or I check in when he disappears.

Except when I stand up for myself,

or sit down and cry.

I reach out to friends,

or I refuse to be social.

I stress over money,

or I work too much.

He loves me, except when I do too much,

or when I’m too exhausted to move.

I expect his affection,

or I withdraw in defeat.

I ask him questions,

or I refute his accusations.

Except when I expect trust I don’t receive,

or I don’t trust him at his word.

I feel comfort and security in his arms,

or I find comfort in myself.

I make peace for my daughters’ sake,

or he hears my petty war cry of injustice.

He loves me,

Except when I’m me.