As a psychotherapist, I often encounter clients who feel guilty for surviving abuse or other tragedies. On the news this morning, I heard Patience Carter, a 20 year old who survived the Orlando massacre, read her poem “The Guilt of Being Alive is Heavy.” I will say no more. I believe her words eloquently reflect a message that is important for us to hear. My heart goes out to her and to survivors everywhere.
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Thank you for sharing about survivor’s guilt Karuna…I hope many take the time to listen to this survivor’s poem…we are a nation in trouble…I pray we can learn to stand together and right the wrongs.
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I imagine it will spread far and wide via internet. And it was on the national news this morning. So I think your hope will be realized.
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Survivor’s guilt is a heavy burden to carry especially after such a horrific incident. Would you consider posting this to the Senior Salon today. I am trying to gather posts regarding Orlando.
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Sure. Would you send me the link?
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Never mind. I just went to your blog and saw it. I will do it later today. I look forward to reading more about Senior salon
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I just posted the link on Senior Salon.
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Thank you so much. I think your post is very important for people to read.
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Thank you for this post. 🌹❤️
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I can’t begin to imagine the trauma one would suffer from what happened, Of all places too. Orlando :O
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What a brave young woman who will be forever changed by this. Thanks for posting Karuna.
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I saw the young lady read her poem and also listening to a young man who couldn’t save his friend in a CBS interview. I pray they feel the love and support of your readers.
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Such vivid images. The terror of it all. 😦
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I know she will take time to come out of this nightmare….I pray for her and others who went through this horrifying incident
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I saw her on television as well…so moving. I worked in domestic violence for many years and also at Ground Zero…survivor’s guilt is brutal, to feel you can even rejoice in being alive because that would betray those who died…those just like you. It is a part of the puzzle “Why.” Why did this happen? Why did my friends die? Why was I allowed to live?
And putting those pieces together is to face the uncertainty of randomness and perhaps to find the path that says…You’re alive for whatever reason, you’re alive! And that is a gift…live it that way..make a reason. Live it that way for you and for those who will not be able to. Fill your life with meaning and purpose…because You are ALIVE. And it’s good to be alive, and it’s alright to be alive, and others are glad you are and celebrate that gift. That is my prayer for all the survivors. Thank you for reminding me. Jo
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Thanks so much for sharing more about the survivor’s experience
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