Don't look down on me

Why do you talk down to me?
I do understand!
I know more than you sometimes,
Don’t wanna hold your hand!

I know what you’re all saying,
I just cannot join in,
I cry from sheer frustration,
And then everyone starts laughing!

Don’t throw me in the air like that!
I'm scared but you think it's fun.
Everything is done for me,
You think I crawl but I'm trying to run!

Why can’t I speak out loud just yet?
I still don’t have a voice,
But I have thoughts and dreams you know,
I'm restricted and have no choice.

I consciously choose to remember,
So when I'm older I can let you know,
When I can finally speak I'll prove to you,
That I had thoughts that long ago!

I don't need protecting I'm fine,
I don't need your pity,
I don't need your patronising,
I don't need to be told I’m pretty.

Yes you did just hear the ghosts in my room,
They bicker and sit in my cot,
They like that I'm open and unafraid,
And I'm sorry that you are not.

Don’t underestimate the silent young,
We know more than one might think,
So don’t pull that stupid face at me,
And stop dressing me in pink!


Claire King