Pulling My Weight

I don’t need to be told to work harder.
Be more focused.
Be more organized.

I already know I’m not making enough money.
That my career is struggling.
That my creative projects sit unfinished.

When I leave the cupboard open,
Forget the lights on,
Or put something in the wrong place—
I don’t need to be told louder.
Or angrier.

Any frustration you feel over my neurodivergence,
Or supposed failures,
I’ve carried longer.
Heavier.
Wearier.

I wake each day knowing
I don’t quite fit.
That everything is just a bit harder.

It may never feel equal.
You’ll feel like you’re doing more.
I’ll find everything more draining.

But you don’t need to carry my weight.
You don’t need to be neurodivergent.
I only ask that you stay open
To understanding mine.