The sprouts will do their best
not to listen to opinions.
They will walk into the dining room
with the intention of being proud
of being green. They will
hope to sit comfortably in their scent
and not offer excuses or hit themselves
with insults to make the room easier.
They will not wonder
why they are not being asked
second questions after ‘How’s work?’
and focus on the few tongues
that recognise the joy of difference.

Carl Burkitt 2023