Growing Up Different

Neon lights and Ninja Turtles
A world that moved too fast
Trying to fit in, but always feeling
Like a glitch in the matrix

They said, "You're smart, but you're so lazy"
"Just focus, try, get it right"
But my mind was a whirlwind
And I couldn't find the light

Final Fantasy and Power Rangers
But I couldn't save myself
From the whispers and the sideways glances
Always the odd one on the shelf

They said, "You've got so much potential"
"Why can't you pay attention?"
But my mind couldn't filter out the noise
So I spent so many days in detention

Little me, I see you struggling
In a world that doesn't understand
Weird kid, always on the outside
Game controller firmly in hand

I wish I could reach through time
And tell you it's not your fault
You're not broken, just different
Your mind works in its own way

Now I'm older, and I see much clearer
The labels that tried to define
ADHD and autism - just words
For a beautifully different design

Looking back with love and sadness
For the child I used to be
Healing now, embracing madness
Finally learning to be free