*This poem is dedicated to Suicide Prevention Month (which is September). If you’re struggling, please don’t be afraid to seek help. Remember that you’re not alone and we love you!*
If I Die Young
You would have found me like this:
gently laid on my side under my purple floral covers
in my best pajamas—pink and soft like the swaddle
I had as a baby or the one velvet headband
still kept in a white box in one of the dozen
white drawers I used to bruise my knee on
The room would smell of lavender
sweet, floral, woody, herbal all at the same time
like you tried to mix all the best qualities
in a purple petal for me, easy for you as frying noodles
till they sizzle, golden and crisp like a bite of the sun
And still I’d be smiling with
the left corner of my mouth half upturned
a crooked new moon winking;
my left arm crossed over my right the way yours do
my back arched, my legs about to leap into motion
though no more
At least not cut down from the ceiling fan like her
breaking you
forever
gone
Or falling limp in my arms clutching a prescription
I fought to tear out of your wrinkled hands
your clear eyes greying like your silver mane
teaching me one last lesson
before blazing white hospital lights blind me
sirens piercing my ears before I realize it’s my own
wailing, tears flooding my eyes before I could
open them, pink now and throbbing
my chest burning with yearning for air and fear
of losing you again
So if I die young…
No, I won’t
I hope that you can take this opportunity to check on your friends and family, especially those who may be struggling, and let them know that you’re here for them. A little can go a long way. Let’s all help raise awareness and prevent suicides this September!
You're Not Alone 