For Luis
Friend, please don’t go.
How can I convince your
troubled mind that the sun
will come back out once again.
I promise.
Usually,
I don’t like to make promises
but this one hits home for me.
You recite your goodbyes to
your loved ones and I can’t…
-Why is it easier for you to envision your funeral
rather than the bright future that awaits you?
Friend, do not give in
to the crispy whispers
the shadows spend their
time crafting to convince
you they are your angels.
Friend, I think of your smile.
I want to see it again
because it is one of a kind
and I
hate that you don’t see
the importance that dangles off the
corners of your mouth where your
scary wicked jokes leak.
Friend, please think of how much
our hearts will ache if we will have to
speak of you in the past tense
-How can you think this could ever be a blessing?
We will be cursed because we will be without
our friend.
Friend, let’s walk together
through the muddy puddles of your mind.
Maybe we can skip the puddles together?
If not,
we’ll become one with the puddles
but at least we can help each other out.
Together sounds better,
don’t you think?
Friend, please stay.
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This poem is dedicated to my friend. He has been going through one of those infamous rough patches in life. I want to use this opportunity to let others who are going through a similar situation that they are never alone. They may feel extremely lonesome and like no one cares whether they stay or go, but please trust me, you are needed and wanted. Help is always available at the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255) or visit suicidepreventionlifeline.org. Please stay.