Equal Consideration

All I want is a pause before you speak,

Some form of recognition I am a person

Worthy of consideration and empathy,

And not someone to be corrected, managed,

Or taught how to live in a manner you deem proper.

I want acknowledgement I have been alive

For a long time now

And my convictions acquired over the years

Are worthy of thoughtful response,

And that my fashion sense, admittedly odd,

Is mine to choose.

I would like equal consideration given

To my neuroses as you give to yours.

I would like equal time on the car radio.

I would like not to have to resort to poetry

To get something said.