[Susan McLean]

Shortlisted

I like short men. They don't gaze from on high
at you, as if you're far beneath their ken.
Equality is easier eye to eye.
.....I like short men.

Knowing how hawks will scrutinize a wren,
they hone their wits and humor (often wry),
and don't seek out a fight. Now and again,

I've met a few who tried to magnify
themselves by cutting others down. But then,
most have learned empathy, which may be why
.....I like short men.

Revisions:
S1L3 was "Equality's easier when eye to eye."
S2L1 was "They too know how hawks scrutinize a wren."
S2L2 "they" was "They"