I belong to a thirteenth tribe,

surviving on the periphery

of the other twelve,

an outsider struggling

for a place inside.

I long to belong, to sing

the song that others croon.

Instead my voice grates off-key,

discordant, out of tune.

It is now too late for me

to sing with others in harmony.

It will soon be time for me to go,

having sung my life's song solo.

4.12.16