ADHD… Before it had a name

To my teacher(s),

                                

You had both hands on the wheel

your eyes were out to sea

the throttle ably set

at a rather dizzying speed.

I was out there in the water

fingers waving frantically

kids were doubled over laughing

I could barely, barely breathe.

I had drifted over board

staring out to clear my head

from the many, many thoughts

drowning, drowning what you’d said.

My mind it moved so quickly

like a magnet I was drawn-

with nothing, nothing to grab hold of

you droned on, and on, and on.

If you had only seen me

had tossed a caring smile

I could have pulled myself back in

I could have joined you for a while;

You’d have stood a little closer

if my eyes had failed to see.

You’d have offered me a hand

If my legs were tired or week.

But my mind it moved so swiftly

as if filled with helium

and you didn’t seem to notice

didn't help to reel me in.

Humor was my birdcall

you were far, far from amused.

It helped me, helped me find you

but would blow your short, short fuse.

You roared “Quiet in the classroom”!

You had lessons to teach-

How many of us, really

Did you really care to reach?

By Lori Polachek