# Tell Me Before You Touch Me **[Verse 1]** You might need to help me dress, Take observations, give me care. But my body still belongs to me, Even when you’re helping there. Don’t suddenly grab my arm, Don’t move me without a word. Tell me first what’s happening So I know and I am heard. **[Chorus]** **Tell me before you touch me. Explain what you need to do. Ask me when there’s a choice to make, Let me answer you.** Care does not erase my boundaries, Support doesn’t erase consent. A warning takes a few short seconds And tells me I’m respected. **Tell me before you touch me.** **[Verse 2]** Sometimes unexpected contact Can make everything feel wrong. Especially when I’m overwhelmed And already holding on. A simple, “Sue, I need to help you,” Can change the moment completely. Knowing what is coming next Can help me handle things more easily. **[Bridge]** My body. My space. My dignity too. Care should happen **with me**, Not simply happen **to** me through you. There may be emergencies Where choices become small, But communication still matters Whenever it is possible at all. **[Final Chorus]** **Tell me before you touch me, Tell me what happens next. Give me warning, give me choice, Give me basic respect.** You can help me without frightening me. Those two things can coexist. Kindness begins with remembering **I’m a person, not a task on your list.** 💜
