Tired of the Stares

When I see extreme sadness when people look at me,
it makes me angry.
Why are you so sad?
Are you feeling sorry for me?
Do I make you uncomfortable?
Do you think my life is awful?
Do you try to tune me out?
Am I too loud?
Look at me and see this:

I am strong.
I am loved.
I am funny.
I am blest.

Sure, there is always pain
and talking out loud is impossible for me.
But, there are always reasons to be grateful.

So, don't look at me and be sad.
Say "hi!" and know that I'm saying "hi!" too.