As a friend

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Poems

As a friend

Why do you withdraw from life
As a turtle in the face of destruction?
I know that you all full of strife
But that's no reason for this action.

You have troubles from your past
Things you couldn't control
The death of your brother holds fast
As of something you can't let go

Death has subdued your mind
It seems to coincide in rapid succession
But know that you will soon find
An escape route from this depression

I can't begin to fathom the pain
Emanating from your sunken face
Things may never be the same
But please, don't remove yourself from this place

There was a time some months ago
When you and I were closer
But you hurt me with your lies
And I moved on to others

No news of you reached my ears
For months and weeks to come
Assumptions came, as did fears
That you were drunk or gone

When I finally learned of your imprisonment
Beyond the rolling hills to the east
In my mind you deserved it
And that's to say the least

It wasn't until your release
That I understood your problems
Loneliness, anger, depression, hate
And you being powerless to stop them

The temporary confinement changed you
I can hear it in your voice
The longing you have to live your life
For now it is your choice

To cast away from your heart
Those horrendous insecurities
To strive to aid those less fortunate
Would you do this please?

There is a part of me that still cares for you
Despite your former past
In your future is hope and forgiveness
Carry these with you until your last

Dani Hooper, age 17
Posted 06/27/06