DISCLAIMER: The Star Trek characters are the property of Paramount Studios, Inc. The poem is the creation and property of M. L. "Steve" Barnes and is copyright (c) 1972 by M. L. "Steve" Barnes. Originally published in Grup #1, edited by Carrie Brennan.

The Kindred

M. L. "Steve" Barnes

Alike or unalike,

Does it matter?

His lips match mine and

Tenderly his arms enfold me

Shutting out the differences

That exist between us.

Warmth pressed to warmth,

Hearts mated,

We will build our world

Within the circle of these arms,

Cast out the loneliness of strangers,

And fill our souls with joy.