Just Like Matthew

by Dean Backus

I am a gay man
Just like Matthew

I am an Episcopalian
Just like Matthew

I am a Saggitarius
Just like Matthew

I love soccer, dancing, and theater
Just like Matthew

I speak three languages
Just like Matthew

I want to make the world a better place
Just like Matthew

I trust people at face value
Just like Matthew

I give my love and friendship to people
Just like Matthew

I know how to cry
Just like Matthew

And on Monday, October 12, 1998
With a last shuddering gasp
As one last star fell
Part of me died

Just like Matthew.