BEFORE I CONFESS

This poem was written for and about an acquaintance who contracted HIV.

Will you love me, even though
I'm someone you don't quite know?

Will you give me understanding
When I'm unfair and demanding?

Will you love me in spite of
The childish fear behind my love?

Will you love and want me still
When I'm old and poor . . . or ill?

Wait--will you love me if I say
. . . What I may not . . . or I may . . .

Will you love me anyway?
_