Resistance
It is so hard - not tripping back into the comfort of shadows
So easy to do what you know, have learnt, to get by
It feels like every second, every minute, every hour is a test
Will you?
Won’t you?
Just make up your mind
Half in, half out is a dangerous space to be in
Perhaps the only thing to do when the dark embraces you
Is to look up and breathe, turn your lips into a smile
Using your fingers if needed
As if you tell your body to be happy
Your mind will follow too
It is all so very hard moans Alice
As she pales and fades on the window-sill
We no longer look out it feels
Trapped inside in so many ways
We have tried to create a home
Colourful lights and books and apple pie
But something is missing
A hole that was never given a lining
Maybe we should paint that lining silver we mutter with all the strength we have left
After all, it is said that joy is an act of resistance.
Oh you are so powerful and brave to open up and I love "Colourful lights and books and apple pie" and yes Joy is an act of resistance so paint that lining
ReplyDeleteWhat a powerful ending! In all circumstances, JOY is an act of resistance. Aiming for being joyful is a very positive thing.
ReplyDeleteI remember the peace and happiness in your poems when home was a place of lights and warmth. It can be again. Alice will get the colour back in her cheeks. Your act of resistance is the hardest and bravest of all. I stand with you, in solidarity.
ReplyDelete"After all, it is said that joy is an act of resistance." It is! It is! especially knowing the world as you do and insisting on your joy anyway. This is another powerful poem.
ReplyDelete"Perhaps the only thing to do when the dark embraces you / Is to look up and breathe, turn your lips into a smile"...This is the bravest way to resist the dark. So inspiring, Jae.
ReplyDeleteIt is all terribly terribly hard. Don't have the answers. All I 've come up with is to escape into a creative combo of art poetry and music and a connection with others through our work. Also be your own good parent. Give yourself little treats and a pat on th back when you have completed an arduous task. A lot of us are sharing the same boat. Chin up kiddo !.....Rall
ReplyDeleteGive yourself that silver lining.
ReplyDelete