Sing, Cry, Dance

A poem by Lara Pickle @larapickle

In this video, storyteller and illustrator Lara Pickle touches on the struggles surrounding mental health issues including self doubt, impostor syndrome and burnout. Featuring her debut graphic novel Estoy Fatal, Gracias! [Spanish version] touching on the same topic, Lara continues to speak up and provide support for those in need. While there is still much progress to be made in understanding and supporting individuals who may be dealing with these, her platform is a step in the right direction.

“Cotton-like fog, migraine in the heart, you’re lost in your mind, staring at the ceiling.
Your mind is your palace, safe, comfortable, and welcoming. But every Kathy has a Lina. Like in the old movies. Lina is the face, Kathy is the grace.
Your mind is your prison. A maze to be lost in, full of spines and sad songs on repeat.
She keeps the guard: Strong stare, mean words, emotionally abusive.
It 's dizzying.
She won’t let you go, but you need to go.
She is your worst enemy. Your reflection, one soul.
Lina and Kathy, one song, two singers.
Your palace is full of smiles on teary faces.
She reminds you of hatred, though she’s the only one that hates.
Sing the rain away, nobody will look.
Let your heart play the drums of liberation.
Bare foot, grass under your feet, dance the rain away.
Cry the pain away. Until your heart’s content.
Sitting in the dark, so silently loud, she looks bitter and lonely.
Wishing she could join you, but paralyzed by fear.
Breeze in your face, wet grass, fallen leaves, and coffee warming your cold hands.
Sing, dance, cry.
Peace treaty on the way, followed by an awkward silence.
“Will I ever understand you” - you both say to each other.
“Will we ever be at peace” - you ask each other at once.
Greet each other like old comrades. Frenemies.
“It comes and goes, it’s complicated” - you both say. And that’s okay.
Sing, cry, and dance the life away.
After all, it’s only one or two days.”

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