(A poem I wrote at age 13 or 14, and yes, it is probably angsty, but also captured a lot of what I was feeling as a “weird” person who had no idea how to “own” being “weird.” Am I being weird now, all these years later? Most likely, but I do own it and love myself for it now. I am unique and neurodivergent. I want to go back and hug my thirteen year old self, and let her know that most things will work out.)
Loneliness
a crushing pain
Yearning for what you do not have.
Pain that is not easily healed –
a crushing blow.
Excitement, wanting it –
quiet and peace contrast.
Crying, wanting, screaming to be
out.
Freedom, protection –
different but the same.
Confused.
Proud.
Unsure.
Agony.
Leisl Jaberg 