Held back by the shackles of society,

His love was masked with depression and anxiety.

From hidden glances to subtle affection,

His love was pure but worth correction.

For love like this was utterly forbidden,

A love like this must stay hidden!

Disapproving eyes and a judgemental gaze,

“You’re not IN love, it’s JUST a phase.”

Bitter words and cheeky conversations,

But the bitterness would fade as if lost in translation.

The shackles held tight but their love was profound,

By a fierce passion, the two were sealed and bound.

I’d always wonder why in a country so “progressive”,

The laws, so broken, and the thinking, oppressive.

It baffles me I say, you say it baffles you too,

How love is love, but with an exception- or a few.

How a girl can cross a street holding hands with a boy,

But gazes are drawn when two boys are being coy.

When it comes to drugs and war and rape,

Laws and policies begin to shape.

But a human right taken away so coldly,

How can a country work so bleakly yet boldly?

Where equality is concerned something’s terribly missing,

This pledge for equality is not worth dismissing.

Why did we let ourselves be taught,

Who to love and who to not?

Love is an experience and a human right,

Not a lifelong battle you live to fight.

People are people despite their parts,

What truly matters is the love in our hearts.