POEM: You're not alone

To the ones with hands cradling pills,

And on their third glass already,

I pray you reconsider your choice,

In wanting to end your story.

To the one whose pen ran out of ink,

To the one who can’t find paper to write on,

Please reconsider your letter,

Open your eyes look in the mirror and know you do belong.

To the one who prays the prayer,

That a loved one prays does not happen,

Please open your mind to others, please,

When they say they need you around.

To the one behind the alley,

And the one sitting after hours alone in their office,

Know how many right now are with you in this situation,

Know how many are trying to understand how to process.

Their own complex pain as you are,

In the loneliness of their own broken spirits,

Know you are not alone,

But that many have faced it.

Put down the pills that you hold,

Drain that glass and bottle,

Throw away the razor blade,

Turn off your car and step off the throttle.

If you want to write,

Then write what is on your heart,

Do not give your family a letter though,

About how you were to depart.

Know you are not alone,

Know many right now experience the same pain and strife,

Know the guilt and shame you carry,

Should never lead you though to end your life.

SASHA FISHER

Coeur d’Alene