I do not fit in your world.
My life has shaped me into something different than what you expect,
than what you allow.
I am a perfect reflection of the life I’ve lived.
I have learned many things that you will never know unless you can see me as someone who has gained wisdom from their experiences.
I am capable of reason, intelligent thought,
and yes, even unselfish love;
even if I still have wounds that are in need of healing and care.
My injuries are those obtained from being told over and over again that I am not worthy,
that I cannot participate,
that my differences are not welcome in this world.
And my wellness has everything to do
with denying what I've been told.
Your insistence that I be like you to fit in
only adds to the injuries I need to heal from.
I do not need your sympathy;
I need your acceptance.
I need to be treated as a welcome part of the whole because of my differences, not despite them.
Letting me into your world doesn't count as a welcome
if I am the only one expected to change.