I enjoy being black
because
my skin
can not blush
in uncomfortable situations,
like when I’m present in a pew
and the word gay
echoes
from the microphone.
It feels as if all stares
are centered
around me.
I try not to move.
Like an expression withholder,
my face becomes stone.
I clench my teeth and
Pace each breath
unsure
of how the rest of
the speakers words
will land.