“Basically, I am a gay mom who is also raising a 13-year-old trans guy. Being the parent of a trans kid is a unique experience, but seeing your child bloom into exactly the person they were meant to be is one of the most rewarding things any parent can witness. There are so many highs and lows, and it’s a massive learning curve. But I wouldn’t trade my guy for anyone.
“A lot of people have questions about parenting a trans kid and have a hard time imagining what they would do in the same situation. You can easily find things about the science and stats of it all, so I wanted to try and create something that more accurately described the feelings behind it. Feelings are universal. They’re easier to identify with.” — Katie James of Coralville, Ia., sharing the inspiration behind her poem, “He.” She is pictured below with her son, Ro.
"He" by Katie James A single she Then unison he The call and response Of this new religion Study the parables Memorize the scriptures Follow the leader She is blasphemy Peace be with you And if not pretend Paint peace like a smile Across your lips And out your mouth What is a name A rose would smell sweeter Than this spicy body Both old and new Same as same Take of your body Flesh is but flesh But your flesh That offends you so Is perfect to me Just as the gift Of the name you were given Was hatched by me Snatched by me from the air And tied about your wrist A balloon floating Above the crowd There you are I'd know you anywhere Didn't I breathe you to life? Didn't I give you these gifts? But you cut it free Cut you free Of me? How else will I know you What name do I call So you don't get lost To me Forever? In benediction You answer he And I know peace
