6 Comments
User's avatar
Louise Wilhelmiene Hayes's avatar

As a recovering alcoholic who got myself sober by writing poetry while walking the beaches of southeast Florida, this pulls at my heart. The concept of not finding a rock bottom, just sinking a little deeper, is so true. Rock bottom in my mind meant death… but until that final platform, it’s amazing how far you can still go. I hope if this is autobiographical that your child has found her way out of the darkness of substance abuse and addiction. 💜💜 you’re not alone.

Laura's avatar

Louise,

Thank you so much for sharing your own journey. You are brave and resilient! I wish the very best for you and your poetry. Thank you for your compassion and for thinking of my daughter.

Phyllis Klein's avatar

To Laura, I was very moved by your poem and the images of the beach, the fish, (hollow eyes, gaping mouths) and the wrecked daughter washed up on the sand. You capture the pain of a parent watching a child who is in and out with the tide. It is heart breaking and very accurate to how this feels. I'm also moved by Louise's comment just before mine. Thanks for this gorgeous poem.

Laura's avatar

You’ve captured the essence of the poem so beautifully. Thank you for taking the time to leave a comment. It means the world to me!

Lisa Geiszler's avatar

Wow! I feel this one in so many ways.