Not Being Able to Speak

Not that I don’t dream of being able speak,
A day with no words can be so very bleak.

Actions can communicate for me, if they’ll follow my cue.
*Reading my mind, it seems, they have learned to do.

There are other ways. I know I’m not the only one.
Sign language for those that won’t be outdone.

I learned the signs for ‘music’ and ‘more’.
But it was hard and I didn’t understand, what for.

Technology has created some new tools to use,
I like lights and sounds as you might deduce.

There are other ways to let my thoughts be known,
Some are a lot of trouble, as I have shown.

If I could just tell them I’m hungry for banana bread.
That’s the snack I’m thinking about before I go to bed.

Or, applesauce muffins, I wish Mom would make those.
That would make me happy from my head to my toes.

This Covid-19 #shelterinplace is working well for me,
I’m quite happy at home. Really happy as can be.

The world out there is scary not being able to talk,
Home is my safe place, I sure won’t balk.

While I’m here I’ve had time to think,
Count yourself blessed if you can speak.

There are so many things I’d like to talk about,
So many questions I’d ask, without a doubt.

Sometimes I cannot turn off my mind,
But, my thoughts, they are locked inside.

I’ll give a good hug when I’m in the mood.
I can actually be a fairly affectionate dude.

But, how do I say it, when the words can’t come?
Three simple ones that make a great sum.

They know it already, it’s not a surprise.
The way I say, I Love You, is with my eyes.

*written by Jacob’s mom, by reading his mind.

“Not being able to speak is not the same as not having anything to say.”

Rosemary Crossley