Presuming Competence
1.
Outcasted for being Autistic, Depressed in our minds, Fighting for our voices.
Solace wasn’t coming. Our brains were thinking But lips weren’t synching.
Echoes everywhere, Visions in dismay, Senses dysregulated.
We were called dumb. Life was not fair. Cruelty had no end.
Hurt to an extreme Our hearts were crippled But never dead inside.
2.
Singled out in life, Influenced by our anger Questioned the norm.
Corrupted by society, Experts do not understand How Autistics truly function.
Modest in our expression, Trained to keep mum We do not fully share.
Captive in our senses, Bothered by stress, Triggered by anxiety
We cannot function. Protecting our sanity Consumes our day
3.
Preparing for our future Built our courage To shape our lives.
Showcased our intelligence Created distinct words With our keyboards.
Built trust in our competence Corrected misconceptions Eased our pain.
Celebrated our wins Forgave everyone Started anew.
Simplified our lives Prioritized safe, sane, worry-free goals.
Priceless are our brains. Creative are our senses. Genuine are our hearts.
4.
Presume Competence! Helps us live our lives to our hearts’ content.
We love to contribute with our different wiring and specialized skills.
Respect our dignity. Follow our lead Into an earthly future.
We are longing to be treated as equals. Please open your hearts to give us a chance.
