Reflected Feelings

I feel shame when the epilepsy I brought with me disrupts a family day,

but I’m supposed to be proud of my other accomplishments.

I feel fear and helplessness when others witness a seizure

but I’m supposed to help others and not be fearsome.

I feel anger directed towards me when my involuntary noises interrupt a meeting,

but I’m supposed to be quiet and attentive.

I feel your intolerance when I am unable to control myself.

but I’m supposed to tolerate myself.

I feel respected

when I show that this condition is my responsibility

I feel accepted

when I accept myself.

I feel love and affection from others

when I have learned to love myself.

“Feelings are more dangerous than ideas, because they 

aren’t susceptible to rational evaluation. They grow quietly, 

spreading underground, and erupt suddenly, all over the place.

~ Brian Eno