A pad challenge response from Linda M Crate

they're wrong 
i am overdue on some
forgotten hugs,
i have back rent in hugs that
are overdue;

i don't mind who gives me
a hug whether it's a tree, a 
crow, a unicorn, a dragon, 
or my fictional father lestat;

but i am overdue on hugs,
affection, and care—

i guess that happens when
you're a misfit crow,
everyone assumes you're 
strong and silent;

that you don't crave connection
or love or depths—

but they're wrong, i always have.
-linda m. crate