I've had suicidal thoughts in the past—as have many transgender people. This poem was written to speak to those who are struggling, to show that hope does exist, even when it feels impossibly far away.
I drew on both my own experiences and those shared with me by others. If you're hurting right now, please remember: no matter how dark it feels, things can and do get better. Maybe not tomorrow—but eventually. Time doesn't erase pain, but it does soften it. That's something I've come to believe from living through it.
We all face moments when escape feels easier than endurance. But in choosing to live, we do something powerful—we show others that survival is possible. Your life, just by continuing, becomes a gift to the world. A light for someone else in the dark.
This was my first attempt at serious poetry. If it resonates with you—if it helps even a little—I'd love to hear from you.
The Silence of the Heart
by Susan Larson
Echoes abound in the silence of the heart.
Joy cannot be found.
Memories cry out.
Tears fall down.
Love has wandered far apart.
Depression's voice resounds.
The weary soul lies down.
Despair descends.
Suicide whispers on the wind—
maybe this is the end.
The sky grows dim.
The sun slips low.
You lie in bed.
Sleep does not show.
Dark thoughts begin to flow.
The crack of dawn appears,
but rest has stayed away.
You've cried until you can't.
Yet still—you've lived to see the day.
You ask yourself, "Why?" then sigh.
But life begins to hum again—
its quiet, stubborn song.
It dares you to go on.
And deep within, you know it's true:
this choice to stay is brave, is right, is you.
The daily rhythms call,
and lift the shadows from your mind.
You rise, and breathe, and find
that healing comes in time—
love's tender wings brush your face again.