Cupid Painted Blind

by Marcus Herzig

I have this theory that the world is in the sad state it’s in because all too often, people tend to succumb to the charm of the bully.

I think in a crazy world, ignorance might be the only thing that’ll keep you sane.”

One final moment of hesitation before she finally takes the leap. “Matthew, are you gay?” I’ve been enjoying this little skirmish up until this very moment, but now that the word gay is out and circling over my head like a military drone, hiding under a rock is no longer helping. It’s time to face the music. Let’s hope it’s a show tune. “Yes?” I say with a voice as steady as I can muster, finally daring to look my parents in the eyes. That’s it. It’s out. I’m out. It’s as if a huge weight has been lifted off of my shoulders, and not only my shoulders, apparently. Mom and Dad both exhale deep breaths, and a diffuse tension seems to depart their bodies. Dad reclines in his chair. First he crosses his arms, then he uncrosses them and holds the open palm of his hand under Mom’s nose. “Oh for crying out loud,” Mom says, pulls a ten-dollar bill out of her pocket and slaps it into Dad’s hand.

When being normal is not an option, being weird is not a choice.”