Don't Give Up

I didn’t come here to meet you,

but to know you.

For we are not an extinct species.

There are far too many of us,

and those who are waiting

for a redemption that may or may not come.

But innocence must be free.

Peace a friend.

Healing may take days, weeks, months…

Years.

Maybe many years.

It will come looking for you.

It will.

I know how the heart yearns and whimpers

in its dark loneliness,

to discern what is right

right for you

and your determination to love this life

not to just survive

but to live again

to come home.

And you will.

Don’t give up.

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Rising Free is a deeply moving anthology of creative writing by seven survivors who have used our services. It is about survival, healing, finding your voice and calling for change. The contributions in Rising Free are intended to share strength and voice with other survivors. It honours the power of survivor stories in creating change, both individually and societally..

Copies of Rising Free, are available by donation from our centre or can be posted out for a donation, plus £3 postage and packaging. Please email info@ercc.scot if you would like a copy.