A few weeks ago at my “share” for my theatre program (Studio D at Segerstrom Center for the Arts), I got a chance to recite a poem I wrote about performing. I did it from memory. I felt nervous but confident. After I finished I felt like I accomplished something. It was a great feeling because I faced my fear and I was supported by all my teachers and friends.

Here are the words to my poem:

Sometimes people are scared

when they see my disability.

But if I take a step toward you,

and you take one toward me,

soon we’re dancing

Don’t you see?

I can sing a song

in a voice that’s loud and true,

But when we sing together,

our melody is new.

And when other people join in

then a chorus we become.

Our voices blend together

and a new song will be sung.

One actor in the spotlight

fills the stage with words they say,

but a cast of different people

put on one amazing play.

Wonderful things happen

when inclusion is the goal.

See me dancing, singing, acting.

See me as a person who is whole.