For a second, I think I am safe

standing supported by solid ground,

A firm foundation of self-esteem.

Then some kid puts teacher is a fag

On the white board and then suddenly

The ground becomes Jenga pieces pulled

Out from underneath me. Suddenly

I am sixteen and I am shaken

Again.

Charles K. Carter (he/him) is a queer poet and educator from Iowa who enjoys live music, yoga, hiking, and film. He has an MA in creative writing with a concentration on poetry from Southern New Hampshire University and is completing an MFA in writing from Lindenwood University. His works have been published or are forthcoming in Anti-Heroin Chic and Dodging the Rain.