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Peering into Your World
by Cathlyn CartierSometimes when I look into your doe-like eyes, I think that I see the real you,
If only for a fleeting secondÂ… and then the shroud falls again.
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Sometimes when you look up at me, I know that you are trying to figure a way to tell me what is going on in your world, the one inside your mind, which no one else can see.
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And sometimes, when it’s least expected, you put down your stringed objects, set aside your “stims” and astound me with the knowledge you possess.
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If only I could find the key to unlock the door that keeps you in your own world. If only I knew how to show you the world of wonder and love that is waiting to welcome you. But then I recall the harsh realities that may await you, that you might have to face with no one to protect you, and I have to ponderÂ…
WhoÂ’s to judge which world is better for you? 10/22/2002 Author's Note: My first attempt to put into words my experiences teaching children with autism.
*"stims" are actions or objects that many autistic individuals often focus their attention on in a self-stimulating fashion. For some it's their hands and fingers, and "finger flapping" is their "stim", for others it's certain types of objects or certain textures. Whatever the case, the individual can become absorbed in the object or activity for long periods of time.
Posted on 10/23/2002
Copyright © 2024 Cathlyn Cartier
| Member Comments on this Poem |
| Posted by Melina Raven Maness Diebold on 10/23/02 at 07:14 PM That certainly raises an interesting question. Good job. |
| Posted by Adrian Calhoun on 10/23/02 at 07:18 PM Cathlyn, powerful, provoking piece. Brought tears to my eyes. It is so unfair, children with disabilities. God bless you and the work you do. |
| Posted by Christina Bruno on 10/23/02 at 09:05 PM This is so beautiful, my cousin has autism...all those poor kids :( |
| Posted by Anne Howe on 11/19/02 at 03:23 AM well written and well said ...it is indeed a dilemma to know at what stage, that which we give to 'challenged' people becomes an intrusion and stressful ..... ???????? |
| Posted by Rhodora M Fitzgerald on 03/10/03 at 11:43 PM Wow.... I love the question at the end... very profound! I have friends who's grandson is autistic.... I will certainly share this with them. |
| Posted by Lori Johnson on 03/12/03 at 02:14 AM This touches me deeply & is the same thought I have about a wonderful little boy I know. His mother struggles every day to make people see her son is not stupid. Sometimes I think he is the lucky one.
Great job, Cathryn. I'll be looking for more of these, they will be a great inspiration for my friend. Thank you. |
| Posted by JD Clay on 03/12/03 at 06:35 AM This one strikes like a velvet hammer. Deserving a re-read following the Author's Note. Made me feel less than whole. Effectual and humbling poetry Cathlyn, great stuff.
Peace... |
| Posted by Ann Krischus on 03/12/03 at 06:51 PM "Who’s to judge which world is better for you?"
I never considered that, but yes, it's a very valid point. |
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