Nothing to Deny

A view on being deaf

I deny that I have a loss.

I deny that my life is worse than a hearing's life.

I deny that hearing people are better than me.

I totally deny that I have a loss.

I don't deny that I have to work twice as hard to be treated as equal.

I don't deny that people intentionally put barriers up attempting to block my success.

I live each and every day with the perspective that I, and

 

I alone am responsible for my success.

I can and will break down each and every barrier put in front of me.

I deny anyone the right to make me feel less than I am.

If you see me as being less, then I deny you.

I deny you the right to be my friend.

I deny you the right to give me advice.

I deny you the right to talk down to me.

 

So... Treat me as an equal so I don't have anything to deny.

-Chet Smith 2012

Reviews

[Sami Khalil]

I like the straightforwardness in this write. Splendid...:)

[Constance Payne]

To treat someone as less just because they are different is the largest part of what is wrong with this old world today. I love that you give others the choice to treat you as an equal or not exist within your life. Look forward to reading more of your works.

[Chet]

I'm a pretty easy going kind of guy. This piece shows a lot more anger than most that know me expect. I'm glad you liked it.

[annabellee]

Such a powerful poem. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us.
Great write :)

[Chet]

Thanks, I'm glad you liked it.

[annabellee]

you're most welcome :)

[jacob erin-cilberto]

this moved me and i related to it in a way...my landlord is deaf...we communicate by writing down conversations...and my dad is 94 and barely hears anything...

part of the world really shuts off...but the other senses get stronger.

good write.

jacob

[Chet]

Thank you Jacob! I like to think my other senses are enhanced somehow too. But I just seem to see the world not more but differently. I'm glad you are willing to use alternative communication methods. I wish everyone would do this.