Labels, Tables and Our Lives

Having a diagnosis….is having a label

You must look at us across the table

The label is something we don’t want to wear

In fact, it is something we could rip and tear

Given assistance is something we need

Yet when it comes to our lives, we must lead

For our individual decisions we hold near and dear

Yet support is essential for the illness so near

 

The river waves are rocky today

and the sun has gone away

symptoms can be draining

the sadness is like raining

the aches and pains they will subside

how long has it been that we haven’t cried

when will the doctors find a cure

the diagnosis: more than words

 

So, families, friends, mental health workers and lawyers

Must see our lives as houses, our labels as foyers

There is no peace when acceptance is lacking

and we need that more than pretentious backing

for when looking into our eyes

everyone can receive a wonderful surprise

we are the people who have the labels

and we welcome you to sit at our tables

understanding our individuality

is essential to your authentic reality

 

Sometimes the water feels smooth as silk

and the sun shines brightly on the trees

the willow bends to hide our grief

and our symptoms feel smaller than a leaf  

labeling is hurtful and careless

we long for listening ears and thoughtful awareness

Consider putting your files away

And taking a chance to know our individual ways

For labels are contained in words

We are not to be boxed in a makeshift world

We implore you to hear our voices, see our eyes

Listen to our hopes, and dreams which are our lives

 

He is a father, she is a mother

I am a sister, you are a brother

He is a husband, she is a wife

What would you do if this was your life?

 

By Susan C. Michael, March 2012