Disclosure
A poem about the positives and negatives of speaking about your disability.
To tell the truth, comes with a consequence.
You may be rejected,
You may be ridiculed,
But if you lock it up, you suffer.
Authenticity is hidden until the true self is seen,
You can’t keep hiding who you are,
You need to feel free.
But at what cost?
The choice is clear, between them and you.
Be yourself or be what they want,
Be happy as you or be depressed as them.
You have to choose.
Hopefully, you choose you.
Author note
Disclosing your disability is complicated. You feel lost and unsure if you should stay silent and mask - or speak your truth. Disclosure may close doors to opportunities, but that is only temporary. Your mental health is more important than external acceptance.
Self-worth starts and ends with you.
Tas is an autistic, queer, nonbinary, person of color that a neurodivergent writer. They are advocates for social justice, and equality, and are scholars of life.
