To compliment my last post about learning disabilities and mental health, I thought I’d post the lyrics of a song I wrote in one of my notebooks during my MT training, while reflecting on Valerie Sinason’s idea of the ‘Handicapped Smile’. Maybe one day I’ll get round to recording it and add it to this post.

This Raw Smile 

This Raw Smile
Holds your attention
So on it goes
Painted Grin
That steals your affection
So on it goes

Please, take your time, breathe with me and
Don’t be afraid to feel my pain.
Words won’t work so I will clench my fist
But with lips upturned, you turn away

This Raw Smile
Holds your attention
So on it goes
Painted Grin
That steals your affection
So on it goes

I am dumb and as my body numbs,
Won’t you stay with me this time?
I’ll show my teeth and you’ll show you care,
But as my smile fades, so do you.

-musiceri-