a good poem | Autism PDD

I just logged back on. Haven't been in here for several months now. My PDD son has been gone to his Dad's for a month and I miss him very much. Now....I read this and am sitting at my desk crying like a baby.

What a touching poem! It brought tears to my eyes (I was thinking about how Luke squirms in his chair during every meal and how dh and I are often telling him to try to relax and sit still). thank you for that.

the last few weeks have been extremely stressful for me, with my daughter and a lot of family issues that have come up recently. last night i was laying in bed so upset over it all, and i kept thinking about how all i needed was a really good CRY, but i just couldnt do it.

well, this is what did it. and i needed it.

don't know if this is one of those things that's made the rounds a lot, but being new to all this, this is the first time I've come across it. I really liked it, thought some of you might like it too.

THE MISUNDERSTOOD CHILD

I am the child that looks healthy and fine.

I was born with ten fingers and toes.

But something is different, somewhere in my mind.

And what it is, nobody knows.

I am the child that struggles in school,

Though they say that I’m perfectly smart.

They tell me I’m lazy – can learn if I try –

But I don’t seem to know where to start.

I am the child that won’t wear the clothes

Which hurt me or bother my feet.

I dread sudden noises, can’t handle most smells,

And tastes – there are few foods I’ll eat.

I am the child that can’t catch the ball

And runs with an awkward gait.

I am the one chosen last on the team

And I cringe as I stand there and wait.

I am the child with whom no one will play –

The one that gets bullied and teased.

I try to fit in and I want to be liked,

But nothing I do seems to please.

I am the child that tantrums and freaks

Over things that seem petty and trite.

You’ll never know how I panic inside,

When I’m lost in my anger and fright.

I am the child that fidgets and squirms

Though I’m told to sit still and be good

Do you think that I choose to be out of control?

Don’t you know that I would if I could?

I am the child with the broken heart

Though I act like I don’t really care.

Perhaps there’s a reason God made me this way –

Some message He sent me to share.

For I am the child that needs to be loved

And accepted and valued too.

I am the child that is misunderstood,

I am different – but look just like you.

(Kathy Winters/2003)

Thank you! Oh, goodness! I love this! It is my sweetie. it made me cry. i have printed it out and will make copies. This is so good. Janet

I read theis to Benjamin. He asked, "Is it for me?" I said, "If you want it." He asked,"Is that me?" I asked, " Does that sound Like you?" He said, "yes."

I am making copies.

thanks for posting this lovely poem.

Janet