Good morning lovely readers. Brace yourselves for something a bit different today. For many years, more than half my life, I’ve struggled with mental health issues. My brushes with psychiatric wards are documented in these blogs: https://orladoherty.com/a-pint-of-heineken-and-a-shot-of-lithium-please-part-one/ and https://orladoherty.com/a-pint-of-heineken-and-a-shot-of-lithium-please-part-two/
I always used laughter to get through. I consider myself blessed that my natural disposition beckons humour and the ability to find those silver linings. I strive to find joy inside adversity. I continue to seek out something positive in everything I do. I’ve tackled mental health issues head on and am proud of where I am today. This morning, I wrote this poem that might resonate with some of you. It’s a bit deeper than my usual stuff, but is significant of my mercurial personality. (: Don’t worry, it doesn’t happen often! Have a lovely Sunday wherever you are, and thank you for reading!
The Octopus Within
For years she tortured me silently
Whispering words only I could hear
This magnificent creature waved all eight in rhythm
So often she spewed venom inside my gut
She was glorious and strong, dancing ‘round my soul
Spitting out suspicion at my mind
My thoughts fuelling her desire to own me
Smiling at me as her belly filled up, she stung me
But I’m aging and wise, and she is older and tired
No longer quietly consuming me, her puny arms are weak
When she visits how I brace myself!
Laughing at her I take back control
She comes less and less these days
Her power shrinking inside me
She’ll always be there, invisible to You
She lies dormant, but forever in Me
©Orla Doherty 2022
10 Responses
Absolutely Stunning Poem Orla O’ Doherty 👏 You have captured the struggle with mental health issues so honestly and beautifully in this poem ‘The Octopus Within’. It resonates very deeply with me and l know it will for countless others. 👏👏🥰🥰
Thank you so much Audrey. Much love to you, hope you’re feeling better. xx
Brilliant Orla and so true. Keep well.
Thank you Terri. xx
Such a good image – brilliant 🤩
Thanks Sarah x
Orla..you probably won’t remember me..but many moons ago I played squash with you! I just want to say how much I enjoy your blog. Keep being you and you are a fantastic writer…Karen Butler
Hi Karen! Wow, I am only seeing your message now. I’m so sorry for the delay in replying. How are you? Where are you these days? Thanks so much for your lovely comment and thank you for reading. I really appreciate that, and am glad you are enjoying the blogs. Orla xxx
I’m in Carrickmines with my 10 year old son! Haven’t lifted a racquet in God knows how long but hear about it through Sue. So lovely to reconnect with you again after all these years. I just love your blogs…so honest and a great giggle too. Karen xx
Thank you Karen! That’s lovely to hear! I’d say it’d be like riding a bike for you if you picked up a racquet again. Thanks a mill for reading and for the support! I really appreciate it. xx