The Child I Could've Been

By Anna Krause
 Don't pine for the child I could've been
If Autism hadn't been part of me
I just want to be accepted
For I am and who I will be

Don't long for the child I could've been
I don't want you to think that I am less
I am simply a child with Autism...
And I'm striving to do my best

Don't ache for the child I could've been
If Autism hadn't touched your life
Don't let the pain run deep
So it cuts you like a knife

Don't ever try to change me
I'm happy the way that I am
I may think and act differently
But I'm doing the best I can

Don't smile when you want to frown
I will understand your pain
I know I don't intend to
But sometimes I can be a strain

Don't fool me with your laughter
If you feel you want to cry
I know you need to stay strong
But sometimes your eyes can lie

Don't think that I don't love you
Just because my words don't come
You've helped me through so much
And there's still more to overcome

Don't worry what the future holds
As together we'll stay strong
I am your child with Autism
And together we'll always belong