By Gala
Date: 24 September 2000

Yielding

The meaning of the word
got lost in the neo-guerilla
post feminist
army boot wearing
I-can-open-my-own-door, asshole
world of my youth.

When a man treating a woman as a lady
became demeaning,
I lost my right to yield gracefully---
even when I wished.

Yielding is the moment
when a woman is consumed
and consent is delicious,
and yes, men can yield too.

Yielding is the kiss
given freely sweet as apple cider
crisp as New England Fall,
and soft as the first flakes
of a night snow.

Yielding is the instant
when gut, heart and head
whisper or shout
a yes that cannot be mistaken.

So with an nod to my sisters,
I humbly assert
that I can yield when I choose.
You there in the back?
If you take a mind
to grace this wrist
with a kiss,
tell me I look lovely
or whisper something yummy
in my quivering ear,
Let's just say
I'm giving you the right of way........



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