I remember the moment vividly,
The Moment of despair,
Realizing that I am so different from others,
Belittled by society,
That looks down on different ones.

I remember the moment vividly,
The Moment of acceptance,
I am different but unique,
I am not less than others,
I am perfect as I am!

I remember the moment vividly,
The Moment of encouragement,
When I was blessed with the support of my family,
Who stood by me,
As I went through a myriad of emotions—
Anger at the injustice,
Sorrow for the ones before me,
Helpless as I can’t change it.
My family nurtured me with love,
In these difficult times.

I remember the moment vividly,
The Moment of self-advocacy,
When I understood my rights,
And my responsibilities,
As they often go hand in hand.
That I need to speak up,
Raise my voice,
Make them understand that—
Unique is beautiful,
I am part of the human spectrum.
Accept me as I am.

Awareness is not enough,
Not anymore!
We need acceptance!
We need inclusion,
That comes from the heart
And lights up our world!

Author: Anudeep Kandula

This piece has been published as part of Meri Awaaz Suno – A Call to Every Heart That Has Something to Say, an initiative by Anupam Prayaas Foundation in collaboration with Beyond The Box. Because every voice deserves to be heard.