POEMS
My Autism My Self
October 2013
Autism took away my speech,
but gave me the will to learn to communicate.
Autism robbed me of control over my body,
but gave me access to the unlimited reaches of my mind.
Autism depleted my ability to be independent,
but led me to trust in those who care for me.
Autism diminished my skills in connecting with people,
but provided a circle of support from those who believe in me.
Autism reduced my understanding of the world as others see it,
but taught me to appreciate the wonder in a water droplet.
Making Connection
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Inspired by Maleh, the work of Galia Arielli, Israeli psychotherapist,for student re-engagement.
Presented at the Just Learning Round Table Conference,
Parliament House, May, 2014
Lost, in a world of inexplicable sensations, raging emotions, chaotic thoughts.
Constricted to routines that offer little solace in an alien environment,
Constrained by the darkness, I projected myself into the cubicle,
portal to an inner world, a fantasy land, peopled by imagination,
with errant knights on fiery steeds, entrusted to do battle with dark sorrow.
A kindly voice, a patient touch, a stalwart presence,
bringing warmth that rekindle the glimmer of hope,
the impenetrable darkness pierced by slivers of light.
I, no longer invisible, acknowledge the outstretched arm,
extended to encircle me in a place of protection, a safe haven.
The world, harsh and hostile no longer,
appears in a new light, gentle, reassuring, welcoming.
With dark sorrow lifting, I loosen my moorings to the old self,
re-emerging from the cubicle, to expand into the sacred space,
resolving to connect, to re-engage with life once more.
Perfect World
​
In a perfect world, lions would lie with lambs,
claws sheathed, fangs retracted, in mutual embrace.
Dolphins would frolic and leap in joy, without fear,
without dread of danger lurking in the deep.
In a perfect world, friendship would reach
across boundaries, real or imagined,
individuals would be respected,
diversity celebrated and differences reconciled.
And I would not recoil from myself,
but roam the waters of Life, a free spirit,
to surf/serve with my dolphin brothers
on waves of energy in a perfect universe.
Circle of Support
“Look not at the eyes but at the light which flows from them”
~ Rumi
You look into my eyes and see my light.
You listen with your heart and hear my voice.
When you look deep into me
I forget my differences.
I have become who I am.
​
My cup is full and my eyes shining.
My voice is raised and my heart singing.
Welcome, dear friend, to my Circle.
With your acknowledgement,
I can lead a life without limits.
