The #1 Motivational Speaker in the world, according to Google (and rightfully so), is a man named Derek Clark. Last week, I attended a talk Derek gave in Paradise, CA. Derek
rose far above abuses and traumas that I won't attempt to summarize.
Plus, he was kind enough to hug me (as he did everyone who approached
him after the talk), before autographing his book. Mr. Clark is 6'5" and I'm
4'8," so I am most impressed by his warmth and willingness to put his
back out. Unfortunately, I was too awestruck to have gotten a photo of
us. Drats!
Derek became instantly known as the cool Rapping Dad, when a rap he threw down while driving with his kids went viral. It's fantastically entertaining; check it out here. His main website, with all sorts of fun information and links to his appearance on Rikki Lake, etc., is here.
Derek became instantly known as the cool Rapping Dad, when a rap he threw down while driving with his kids went viral. It's fantastically entertaining; check it out here. His main website, with all sorts of fun information and links to his appearance on Rikki Lake, etc., is here.
Coincidentally, I'd penned this poem the day before Derek's presentation. It addresses the strength of the human spirit, with which he shines. This month marks Mental Health Awareness month. Mental health challenges touch us all. I've lost two people I was very close to, to suicide, and I've battled depression throughout my life. I'm doing great right now, though we never know what the next moment will bring. [If you're interested, I published an article in a local newspaper last year on my fight against depression here.] Know that, whatever your life's struggles, you're never alone.
You're Not Alone
Please believe
I know your pain
Your broken soul
That smile you feign
You say "I'm fine"
But it's a lie
You dare not share
Your urge to die
I know your rage
And hate
And shame
The burn that set your heart aflame
Consumed by grief
Your life a curse
Cold lonely days
Still nights are worse
Please believe me when I say
Keep holding tight
You'll be okay
Monstrous ills, you cannot halt
Go gentle now
It's not your fault
Mental illness has no cure
You're mortal with a heart that's pure
I know not how
I know not when
But you'll reclaim your life again
Embrace a faith you never knew
You'll be so glad you wrestled through
Please believe
And hold on tight
As strands of pain fade into light
And tender hues transform your sight
You're not alone
Please know it's true
I'm right here
Holding tight
with you.
