They make fun of Henry, but never in public
Laughing behind his back whenever he turns
Always in groups and never alone
Careful, very careful never to upset him
Gracious and caring when one on one
They know he is different to them

Henry is happy when he is surrounded
Mouthing words that mean little, to friends that mean less
Showing courage and candor through blind eyes
Unaware of his disadvantage, oblivious to those who mock
Caring only for attention and recognition
Believing he is just like them

Humorous, sometimes, yet unintentionally so
Sincerity passing over those who continually mock
Used as an afterthought and plaything for most
Earning respect through persistence, an impossibility
Refusing bluntly to be discarded as an outsider
Unlike them, he is special.

© Alan Zoltie Jan 05