An Unspoken Voice
~ Through the eyes of a child with autism ~
by Kelly Strong
©http://www.nationalautismassociation.org/poetryunspoken.php

I am special
I have been told so many times
I don't know what that means
I have two eyes, two hands and a smile
Just like you.
I would appreciate it
If you would talk to me
Like you do to other kids.

Sometimes you have to be patient with me
I like to think before I speak.
But if you give me time,
I will try
To answer best I can.

Sometimes, I may not look at you when
you talk to me,
But I promise I hear you.
Please smile at me,
Laugh with me.
Tickle me, you won't hurt me.

Accept me and include me
I really want to play with you.
Respect me and understand
That sometimes, I like to be alone
Just like you.

I wish I could tell you
How much you mean to me,
But words don't come that easily.
Someday I will show you,
But for now,

Just look at my eyes,
And the smile on my face
And you will see...
How special you are to me.