Best Friend

I never thought because of who we are we could ever be friends. You, a straight teen boy, and me, a confused queer kid. Our kinds didn’t mix; it’s like straight teenager boys are horny for girls, and queer pre-transition boys like me, we’re horny boys. We ain’t got nothing much in common, just a possibly uncomfortable situation.

Lesbians like girls, and straight guys like girls, so they relate; us, just didn’t ever seem likely to me. Straight boys could be so mean, but I’ll never forget that moment with you.

My first high school party; none of the other boys would take a drag off the joint getting passed around after it touched my lips. Yet you took it, like a sign of admiration. You stood up for me from that point on, never inappropriate, always like a brother. I’ll never forget you saying out loud in front of all the boys there, “I understand why anybody has an issue with you; you’re good the way you are. I got your back.”

Changed my perspective forever.

You’d pick me up at the bus stop to tech, refusing to allow me to take the bus, and so I rode with you. We’d smoke down joints on our way, and I’d laugh with you over stupid shit.

I convinced our English teacher to like you and helped pass your grades, write your papers. In exchange, you’d give me my first-ever Molly experience, and I’d take my permit test that day high off my ass, but I passed, and that pic is solidified in my brain.

We were both twins; maybe we just understood each other. Looked out for each other like siblings, yet we’re still young teens.

I think looking back now that probably got me kicked out of my home then. Finally finding my place, feeling drowned away from all my problems. Everything was ripped away, yet your generosity stuck with me even till now.

A teenage boy with seemingly nothing in common with a little queer kid could become friends. Any two people can find ways to relate to each other and build a bond no matter our differences or preferences.

Always made you so special to me, and I’ll appreciate those days forever. I wonder often what we’d become, and I’d never see you again, but you’d grown into the man I’d always believe you were.