
Another Autism Poem
Diagnosis
Looking at you is like
Looking through a transparent, hollow hour-glass
Counting every grain, feeling its texture
Observing if you look at me or look away
When I look imploringly into your unstable eyes.
Will you smile or stare vacantly into the distance.
Will you respond if I call your name?
Will you smile if try to play and engage
Your fleeting attention?
Do you see those who see you
Carelessly running and screaming in mirth
While the wheels turn in your head and in your hand?
Do you see this make-believe phone I’m holding up
And will you for real play make-believe
Pretending is a lifeline to normalcy.
If I say “come here” maybe you’ll get me
Or will you elope into the dark, dangerous nowhere?
Level 1, 2 or 3? Is there hope?
Do you have a chance out of this
Diagnosis/label/verdict?

