I'm Mentally Ill, I'm Not Stupid

I'm mentally ill, I'm not stupid.
I'm still in control of my life.
Say what you want to my face, if you can,
don't ignore me and talk to my wife.

I'm mentally ill, I'm no baby,
I do have a will of my own.
You do what's right in your mind but I beg you
don't make those decisions alone.

I'm mentally ill, I'm not gaga.
Your medicine's getting me down.
Your BNF says it all, if you'll look,
don't reject my complaint with a frown.

I'm mentally ill, I'm no liar,
I say what I think to be true.
I can be wrong but I just don't believe
truth is any more certain for you.

I'm mentally ill, I'm not braindead.
I don't need putting away.
I just wish that someone would listen,
don't dismiss everything that I say.

- by Prajna Pranab, 1998