You are here, before me, with your small body growing longer each day, in bloom like nature at this time of year—yet still showing no sign of adolescence.
Your gaze drawn to anything mechanical or bright, like a magpie after silver,
your finger forever in your mouth, your chin wet with saliva…
They say you are a severely disabled child. That is the diagnosis.
But your parents do not know how much value your life holds.
In you is the simplicity of one who remains forever a child—a simplicity too hard for many to possess.
In you is the greatness of important people, those whose presence demands silence and respect.
In you is the power of those who quietly lead crowds…
With your life, seemingly without value, you lead us—
you lead me to believe in and live out brotherhood and love.
And when I hold you in my arms
it is you, really, who bears the weight of us both.
Maria Grazia Pennisi