We don't understand

when we hear your silence

We cant see behind your frustrated eyes

when you plead for our attention

We are unable to feel your awkwardness

when you try to speak and the wrong sounds emerge

We cannot be inside you to will your tongue to move

when it struggles to find the roof of your mouth

We don't understand the fear that consumes you

when you are on the playground when you should be having fun

We are not privy to your brain that creates a world of words

only to have your muscles stop their meaning

We do not hear your mind communicating freely

only to have us look quizzically and ask for repetition

We cannot sense your joy at moments of clarity

only to have it rapidly disappear again and again

We do know who you are

when you look into our eyes

We can hold you tightly

when your fists clench and tears fill your vision

We will struggle with you each day and night

when you practice your speech sounds with great deliberation

We are proud of your trying

when we might just give up

We share with you your pain

when your mouth is tired and slow

You know that we will love you

when you are little and when you grow

You know that we will be there for you

when all seems dark and cold

You know that you are special and what you want to say

You know you are our children and who you are each day

You know your world is full and how to find the way

You know we hear your silence

You know, we hear your silence

You know we hear your silence