More Than This Poem by S.E. Washburn

I am more than this.
Yes, I have a learning disability- but I can hear a song once or twice and sing it back to you.
I am more than this.
The people who were supposed to care for me most had child services called on them before I could hold my head up- but I have learned to nurture.
I am more than this.
My people have been systematically destroyed. We are mascots, parodies, a joke. But I am proud of my dark, long hair and high cheekbones and almond eyes - the "disappearing Indian" is a myth- or else what am I doing here?
I am more than this.
My doctor has said I am "overweight". Must I chide myself for every morsel I put between my lips instead of enjoying the flavor of what I'm eating, or being grateful I'm not in a hospital being fed liquids in a tube?
I am more than this.
Apparently I should be grateful for life rather than a legal execution. But I am happy I have someone wonderful, for no other reason than I want to, not because society says "It is done".
I am not my past, I am not even my present.
I am more than this.