This is a poem I wrote while a community work supervisor

[isurvived]

for developmentally disabled folks. The worksite we were on was a state office building and the people-well, some were nice, and some did not want us there. I was trying to communicate the fact that I felt that they had a right to work in the community just like everyone else and that they are human beings, just like the rest of us.
 
We perform well when put to the test,
with our clothes in order, very neatly dressed.
We're all ready, all you have to do is ask,
when there's work to be done, we're up to the task.
I am a person with feelings, a good human being,
some people miss what's inside-it's only the outside they're seeing.
You see, these jobs we want increase self-esteem,
compared to what it could be, this is a dream.
Having a job allows me to go on lunches, picnics and such,
things taken for granted by some and loved so much.
I just want to get my foot in the door,
it will permit me to do things I couldn't do before.
If I'm in the community, you know it's a fact,
that it gives me more time to relate and interact.
Help me to get away from total dependence,
so I can find self-determination and in-dependence.
You see, freedom of choice is important to me,
because it means I can be what I want to be.



EDITED: Added Bold Prompt - Sluff/ Admin

[Sluff]

Very beautifully written isurvived. 

[The Wife]

 

[Romona]

Wonderful poem! I work at a state facility for disabled adults. You hit the nail on the head with your poem. 

[isurvived]

I am a firm believer in the fact that if you feel strongly enough about something, it is easy to let your opinion be known. I would still be working there if conditions were right. I always felt strongly about the folks that worked for me. I had some others that worked restaurant jobs that would do anything for me if I asked them to do it. I had them at my home many times to eat supper, as well as taking them out for pizza, breakfast, etc. I still buy Christmas for 4 guys who worked for me and I have not been there for over 10 years. By the way, the poem took me 15 minutes to write.

[Romona]

It is a tough field. It is easy to get discouraged. Even the ones that are severe to profound have such distinct personalities. I love my job. Sometimes management makes it hard to do it. I also have a family member that is developmentally disabled. People like you make such a difference in the lives of these wonderful people. Thank you for being there for them. 

[isurvived]

Amen, Ramona. I actually would not have it any other way. I can still walk into the workshop they have and at least ten or fifteen of the folks will say hello to me. It is nice to be remembered for good things.