A couple of years ago, a friend asked a question on Facebook: “What difference would it make if I wasn’t here anymore?”
I wrote this poem for him.
I also wrote it for those who had never asked me the question — well, not that I know of, at least — and left of their own accord.
Because it is Suicide Prevention Week worldwide, it’s a very appropriate time to share this poem with you. I hope it encourages you.
Just so you know, my friend stayed. And I’m very glad he did.
And if you’re ever in that situation, I hope you will stay, too.
©
Tonight
Through the tears
That sprang from your pain
And fell from my eyes,
I looked into the sky
Where there was one less star shining,
And I wept for the world
Where life carries on
Just that bit darker
Than before
You left.
©2017 Joanne Van Leerdam
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This poem and fifty others are now published in a new collection: The Passing Of The Night.
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