Instead of writing an essay about my experience with AB Spasmodic Dysphonia, I have written a poem. For many years I was an English teacher. During the last few years of teaching, I had difficulty communicating but persevered. When I retired in 2003, I ran successfully for a seat on the local Board of Education. The poem shows my feelings about what I can contribute to the children in spite of my severe case of SD.
A Voice Found
On the surface I am a person without a voice,
straining to speak, to communicate,
to get people's attention.
It would be easier to retreat into the silence,
but I have a mission in this world
which fate will not ignore.
Though the physical is only a whisper,
my spiritual voice is strong.
It speaks for the weak, the disabled, the gifted.
for all the children.
IN ITS SILENCE IS ITS STRENGTH
as it shouts for justice and equality for all.
It is a voice found, a voice for all the people.
.
Personal Experiences
Linda Barnette.
