Always Something Burning

Poetry Friday logo by Linda Mitchell

Happy Poetry Friday! (Wondering what Poetry Friday is? Click here.)

I had MORE good news to share Thursday, plus invitations (both virtual and in person) for educators in my previous post, so please click here if you missed it. Thanks!

I’m sharing a poem this week for everyone who loves someone with self-destructive behavior–whether that’s from addiction, mental health issues, or other problems. It comes with a hug from me.

I’m going to be off-the-grid for a couple of days celebrating my 34th (ETA–ack! 36th! goodness) wedding anniversary, but I’ll get to as many posts as I can!

And for lots of wonderful poetry, don’t miss the Poetry Friday Roundup with–oops, it’s with our fearless organizer and maker extraordinaire, Mary Lee!

20 Responses

  1. Hi Laura, it’s a poignant poem, even more so tonight since I just learned from a friend today that a child’s daughter, 13, has been diagnosed with an eating disorder. They will find help, I’m sure, but it is devastating for all the family, so worried about her. You are so kind to write about the struggle. (On another note, I am not hosting today, but Mary Lee is!) I’m at the start of “next” month! Enjoy your time away!

  2. Laura, I love this poem because you have captured such a difficult thing in such a meaningful way. Hugs to you for writing it! And happy anniversary, too.

  3. Ah. This cycle of love is so real to so many. It’s tough — and you’ve captured it honestly, Laura.

    Congratulations on the wedding anniversary. Enjoy your days away.

  4. Congratulations on all the good news! You’ve worked hard and it’s well-deserved.

    Thank you for this heartfelt poem that expresses feelings that many people can identify with.

  5. Laura, so many of us can relate to your poem. I’m so happy for all of your good news! You deserve all the good things coming your way. Happy anniversary!

    1. Thanks, Linda–and I just opened your lovely congrats card. Thank you so much–it warms my heart.

  6. Laura, wow! This poem relates to so many different concerns. It made me think of a person involved in serious drug issues that I know. It is so hard to watch and be helpless.

    Have a wonderful anniversary celebration and some well-deserved time off!

  7. Laura, congratulations on all the book love Finding Family is getting. The copy you signed for my grandson has found its way onto his shelf; it’s such fun to know the author! Your poem is painful and rich. “His tears mix with ash” grabbed me by the throat. Happy anniversary to you and your love! 34 years is a great accomplishment.

  8. Enjoy your celebration, Laura. And thank you for the poetry-hug. It’s hard to let those we love burn.

  9. Oh, that heartbreaking refrain. Oof… Thanks, Laura, for writing this and sharing. Congrats on your recent good news, and have fun on your anniversary weekend!

  10. Laura, this poem guts me like none other you have written. I feel it to the core. I have not had to deal with addiction, but know far too many parents who have. Your poem is powerful.

  11. Happy 36th Wedding Anniversary!!! That’s something special to celebrate, Enjoy! 🥳 Me and my hubby are ahead of you by a wee fee short years–and I say Yikes to that!

    Thanks for this sobering, powerful poem, a difficult all around dilemma for all.
    From Michelle K.

  12. Oof, I, too, can relate to your powerful poem, Laura. Hugs, my friend.
    And happy 36th! (my hubs and I celebrate our 35th this year…we married when we were toddlers. 😉

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