Paul Schneiter Poet Rhyme

From a Distance

From a distance what I saw
in a Down Syndrome child
was a human in the raw—
forgettable, lamentable, wild.

My prejudice was abhorrent
dismissing a "different" being.
Disdain came in a torrent
driven by cold-eyed seeing.

Then came a close-up look
at a new grandson in my arms.
My bias I forthwith forsook
lost in his extra-gene charms.

Almond-shaped eyes, short fingers
flat nose—those one observes.
But the trait that ever lingers
is a smile an angel deserves.

The sight remodels the mind,
assures that nothing is awry.
Anything like it you won't find
regardless of how hard you try.

From a distance what we see
is often not what we suppose.
The virtues of human intimacy
universal truths ultimately disclose.

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Anne-Lise Andresen October 28, 2014 at 12:32 PM - I have worked with Down Syndrome children - Most people do not know that much of this syndrome - Ignorance makes distance - No one is more open, honest and loving ..... give them a place in your heart - Really glad that I read your poem today Paul !!!! - oxox // Anne-Lise :) Anne-Lise Andresen October 28, 2014 at 2:54 PM - Yes, I know this statistic of around 90% ..... ultrasound is great, but not always - // Anne-Lise :) Paul Schneiter October 28, 2014 at 2:47 PM Anne Lise, A well-placed source told me that world-wide 90% of DS babies are aborted. Apparently, as soon as their parents learn (via ultrasound) their child will be DS, they have it destroyed. We have found what you write to be true—they truly are "open, honest, and loving." It's a blessing to have such a child. Thank you for your kind words of wisdom.

Liam Mcdaid October 28, 2014 at 10:17 AM outstanding piece of writing paul excellent picture you drew Paul Schneiter October 28, 2014 at 2:51 PM Liam, I regard supportive words from you as a treasure. I'm immediately gratified when I see your photo on the comment section that relates to one of my poems. I can't thank you enough. God bless, ever and always.

Brenda Meier-Hans October 28, 2014 at 10:06 AM I'm happy you wrote this Paul. It helps people understand Down Syndrome children better. They have an inner beauty that far surpasses any outer beauty. They love unconditionally and the biggest thing special about them is that they are more special than any of us. I was blessed to spend much time with a Down Syndrome child and I'll never forgot that special twinkle in his eyes. Paul Schneiter October 28, 2014 at 2:57 PM Brenda, What you write is "smack on." DS children DO have an "inner beauty that far surpasses any outer beauty," and they are, indeed, "more special than any of us." Thank you for writing— thank you, thank you!

Dan Helppi October 27, 2014 at 10:43 PM Perfect sentiment spoken honestly, I really appreciate words written this way. So true about the angel smile. Good poem, Paul Paul Schneiter October 27, 2014 at 11:27 PM Dan, Thank you! Your encouraging words are valued and appreciated. I hope all is well with you and your loved ones. God bless.