>
> 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
>
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]