Do You See Me?

Thoughts from Hiserland, 3/1/2025

Do You See Me?

I sit in my seat, as best as I can.

Trying to hide the true person I am.

It is hard to keep the real me at bay.

So many things I wish to do and to say.

But that is not what is expected of me.

I should sit and listen, like those around me.

But that is not how my body learns best.

I should not have to be just like the rest.

My brain is wired quite differently than most.

It is amazing, but I try not to boast.

My brain processes information in a unique way.

I do not have to be still to hear what you say.

My body needs movement to process input.

I do not have the ability to just freeze and stay put.

It is not to be naughty or to show disrespect.

I really do try to do what you expect.

It is not just my body that cannot be still.

My specially wired brain goes on tangents at will.

Today in science, I was learning about force.

When my wonderful brain went a little off course.

A theme song from my new game started to play.

I thought about how to beat a level later today.

Next thing I knew I was right in the game.

Jumping over obstacles, dodging a flame.

I knew how to win, the level would be beat.

“Yes!” I exclaimed and jumped out of my seat.

My excitement soon faded as I looked all around.

All my classmates were working, there was no other sound.

Then I saw it, from across the whole room.

The teacher was glaring at me with the eyebrows of doom.

This look is not new, and it won't be the last.

My chest fills with dread and my heart beats so fast.

I hate getting scolded and called out for my differences.

Losing my points and sometimes my privileges.

They say, “Why can’t you just focus and get on with your work?”

But I hear, you are less, you are bad, stop being a jerk.

I beat myself up over not being the same.

I feel bad for disrupting, can’t get away from the shame.

But then something changes, the look on her face.

It is one of surprise not one of disgrace.

The teacher was by me, down on one knee.

“I am sorry my friend, can you just let me see?”

I showed her my work completed and right.

She beamed with pride for me, oh what a sight.

My heart slowed back to a regular pace.

I noticed the smile grow on her face.

I have extra time I finished so fast.

I want to draw my solution while the memory lasts.

“Here is paper and some fine colored pens.

Can you share what made you so excited just then?”

I get right to work; relief calming my nerves.

No need to hide, getting what I deserve.

This is how I wish all teachers would be.

No need to shame, just accept me for me.