I’m a survivor
who travels
from darkness to light
or from the light
to darkness
fully experiencing
all the shades of gray
between the two
at times
this journey
called life
can be lonely
and sad
even though
others are around
ridden with doubt
fear and conflict
shadowed
with the possibility of
life’s end
however
such moments
of affliction
offer up
those opportunities
for courage
and a chance for
a renewal
of self worth and purpose
a coming out of
the darkness
that gleefully brings
the spirit of
joy and hope
back for a while
as bright as
the sun
not to be eclipsed
by the moon
I’m a survivor
peace out
Image & Words by ~Keith Alan Hamilton~
This poem is one of two I have written and dedicated to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, funding research, advocacy, survivor support, education, and awareness programs – both to prevent suicide and to assist those affected by suicide.
Please donate to these 2 Out of the Darkness Overnight walks that I will be doing with two of my dearest friends on planet earth. I need to raise a $1,000.00 for each 16 mile walk. Those like Madeline and Regina who know my story understand how important it is to me to raise awareness to this great cause.
As a social activist performance artist, I will be creating and walking as a body metaphor by wearing all black clothes and a hood to symbolize the transitional process – to bring back to light out of the darkness, to air out, and confront through the healing process of dialogue, those inhibitions and predispositions that cast a dark shadow over those who struggle with depression and thoughts of suicide. Come out and cheer us on…..
San Francisco Walk with Madeline Tasky Sharples
http://theovernight.donordrive.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=donorDrive.participant&participantID=17166
New York Walk with Regina A Walker
http://theovernight.donordrive.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=donorDrive.participant&participantID=17468