What a heartbreaking experience and story Michael. And I agree with you about the paramedics: "These people really are modern day heroes."
The very sad part though is the staggering number of people who die from drug overdoses and who get hooked in the first place. To me it represents a stark lack of a spiritually nourishing society. It's so very sad.
(and p.s. I just realized that I got so absorbed in your story that I forgot to say brilliant writing - perhaps the best compliment😉)
I totally agree with you Camilla. It is incredibly sad how many people get trapped and taken by addiction, drug overdoses, and other such maladies of the soul. As someone who has struggled with addiction it is something I find deeply disheartening. And like you said I do believe that in many cases there is a lack of spiritual nourishment. I heard it said once that — “The opposite of addiction isn’t sobriety, it’s purpose.” I would say purpose can also mean, connection, community, meaning, and spiritual exploration.
Also, I’m thrilled to hear you got so absorbed in the story — that is the highest compliment a writer can receive. :)
Michael, I have so much admiration for you as both a writer and a human being. Your lack of identification with ego is so refreshing, and your loving kindness and compassion are beautiful and inspiring to me. Just reading through all your reader's comments in itself is inspiring - you have such a gift Michael.
And I agree with Evelyn: "This confronting story is made beautiful through your use of language. You manage to instill and highlight the humanity so often lost in these kinds of tragedies."
And this is spot on: "“The opposite of addiction isn’t sobriety, it’s purpose.” I would say purpose can also mean, connection, community, meaning, and spiritual exploration."
Jamie recently shared this with me - I find it fascinating and wasn't aware that Carl Jung was a direct influence behind the 12 step program: https://www.instagram.com/p/DJ90G0jR-1f/
Aww thank you, Camilla. That is so nice of you to say. You are so sweet and I really appreciate it. Although, I must admit, I think my ego is still pretty big — I mean, I’m great, so how could it not be? Hehehe 🙃
Also, thank you for sharing that link about Jung and the 12 step program. I had no idea Jung had anything to do with that! How interesting! It also makes a lot of sense, though, the notion that many addicts are seeking spiritual connection. I didn’t go through the 12 step program in the traditional sense, but my sobriety journey definitely mimicked a lot of the steps, especially, opening up to spirituality.
One of the things that’s so hard for paramedics in large centres is getting called to the same people over-dosing several times in the same week. I know first responders who have had to leave the field because of that challenge.
This is an important story, I’m glad you shared it. We can all play a role in helping others and your role in this story may have been lifesaving. Pointing out what a good job the ambulance attendants did, and how it restored your faith in that part of the system, gave me a lift.
The two best parts of this story are learning about your AMAZING morning routine and the reminder that we cannot turn away from the folks that may need our help.
Yes, I have heard similar stories about paramedics responding to the same people in the same week — that is so rough for everyone involved that it’s hard to even comprehend.
Hahaha thanks Donna, I’m glad you like my morning routine. It’s getting a bit harder now that it’s winter here, but I’m still doing it every day. And besides, aussie winters don’t have much on your Canadian ones!
And yes, I couldn’t agree more — “we cannot turn away from the folks that need our help”.
Impressionable, well written, and yes- very sad. I was drawn in by your morning routine, as well. I also am drawn to “feel the earth,” reconnecting with nature often. It’s something I feel I have to do every now and then. The rest of the story certainly is one I personally hope and pray would never happen again. You see, I’ve experienced that situation too many times. Your part in helping to save that woman’s life appreciated by me if no one else. And it doesn’t matter how much or how little you believe you contributed. I know, it’s scary to approach anyone in those moments to help. And still- you did. Thank You. It’s people like you we need more of in this great big mess. You are appreciated! ~Adriana
Thank you Adriana. Your thoughtful and kind words mean a lot. It certainly is scary to approach in these moments, but, as I’m sure know, sometimes, if we feel we can help we just have to try.
Also, I’m glad you feel drawn to connect to the earth from time to time — it is strangely nourishing. :)
You are very welcome Michael! Indeed the draw to nature is thrilling, and strange at once. It’s that beautiful spirit which carries us through life~ knowing it must be tethered here until we are no more. Have a wondrous day!
“Leaving the receiver atop its metal box, I ran across the park as a thousand thoughts crammed through the door of my mind. How do I know if she’s conscious? What do I do if she’s not breathing? Am I supposed to do CPR? What if she dies? What if she’s already. . .”
In an emergency situation like this, there’s always a correct way to proceed…retroactively. It’s paralyzing when all the possible things you could do all seem right, or wrong, or mutually exclusive but necessary. It’s terrifying because you don’t know what to do and have exactly zero time to think. You captured the urgency of this situation, from all directions, impressively.
More impressive were your actions. You did the best you could, taking cues from all parties. You were observant, equipping you with the details to aid paramedics. You were patient to try the pay phone again after the initial issue. You were also aware of James and his fiancée, familiar with an in the area in a way that may have encouraged him to seek help in a way he might not have if the Ranger alone was present. You did great work to facilitate the great work of the first responders.
In a story that points to so many societal issues larger than any single situation, it feels important to cling to the functioning branches. A compassionate citizen. A present Ranger (tension aside). Responsive, skilled responders. A health care team that got Akshaya through the OD. Yes, there’s a cycle that begins anew from there, but since I don’t know how to address the larger scale stuff, I’ll read this and breathe a sigh of relief that good people did a good thing to keep a human being alive.
If there is ever an award for in-depth reading and equally exhaustive comments it has to go to you Michael.
Goddamn man, thank you. I don’t really even know where to start. I’m so thrilled that you felt I captured the million-different-possibilities-all-at-once-creating-an-overwhelming-sense-of-urgency. That means a lot. Your kind words on how I responded is equally meaningful. And what you said at the end about the deeper societal issues that such an event points to — I agree with you. All of it is so messy and hard to even begin untangling that, I was also just relieved that people came together in that moment to save her.
Guess what I saw this afternoon, well before reading your story, in East Vic Park, laid out on the pavement around a metal signpost, abandoned: a raggedy small suitcase, a bottle of wine and a tattered black notebook, open and displaying large, awkward handwritten notes , There was also a shirt, wrapped around the post... I am not kidding. Your ranger may have succeeded in driving your friends out of West Perth. No doubt I will meet them in Vic Park sooner or later. Can't say I enjoyed reading your 'Mike Edward meets reality' story but then it was not meant to be enjoyed. It certainly held my interest in a kind of inwardly shuddering way. A few nitpicking comments: 'cue' not 'que' and 'affect' not 'effect'. Cheers
Ohh wow! That does sound eerily similar to my friends. I imagine will will probably see them in Vic Park at some point as I suspect they get around.
And thank Naomi, I think your words, “a kind of inwardly shuddering way” captures the feel of the piece very well. Also, I appreciate your comments — ‘affect’ v ‘effect’ always gets me haha. :)
I have since started rereading your story (interrupted by phonecalls and knocks on the door): What I especially liked, and it is one of your strengths, is the dialogue interspersed with your commentary (thoughts). And the authenticity of the dialogue. And the self deprecation and irony in going out to the park to relax... Yeah, right! One word of warning - I always understood that out of body experiences (i.e., you see the events including yourself projected out of the body - there is a moment of that in your story ) is a sign of trauma. Had it myself once. I knew I was traumatised when a person just in front of me, jumped into the path of a car deliberately. I am still not completely recovered. and like to avoid that point in the road. Hope we can soon hear you and Evie at the VPWG's gatherings.
Thank you Naomi. I’m so flattered you’d take the time to read my story a second time. And I really appreciate your compliments on my writing.
As for the trauma stuff, thank you, that is astute point. I didn’t put in the story as I just didn’t know how to place it, but when I got home that morning I was definitely in shock. I felt weird physically and emotionally and it basically threw me off for the whole day. I do feel as though writing the experience out did help in some way.
And I’m sorry to hear you were witness to that.
Yes, I can assure you Evie and I want to get back to the VPWG gatherings as soon as possible. :)
Wow. This story is heartbreaking in all the ways. But before I even dive in that, I have to say, your deft hand with storytelling astounds. I actually listened to this story in the car on my way back from an early morning appointment and I nearly had to pull over multiple times, I was so lost in the details unfolding before my eyes. Dramatic events aside, for me, the mic drop was at the end when you felt this momentary restoration of faith in "the system" only to realize that all the system can do is keep a heart beating and that has nothing to do with actually saving a life.
You might consider entering this story into a journal. It's quite extraordinary.
“… all the system can do is keep a heart beating and that has nothing to do with actually saving a life.”
— damnit Kimberly, how do you do that!? I said in our interview that you always sum things up in a way that resonates so much for me, and you just went and did it to a story I wrote! Hahaha
That’s exactly how I felt. I mean, I tried my best not to pass judgement and instead just tell the story as I experienced it, but yes, the mic drop at the end about “the system” both working in that one moment but failing on a larger scale was something I felt need to be touched on. And so, I’m thrilled to hear you not only drew out that takeaway, but that you summed it up so well.
Also, thank you so much for your kind words on my storytelling, that means a lot. And since you mentioned it, maybe I will see if I can float this by a journal. Thank you for the encouragement :)
Wow, wow, wow. Michael, I was on the edge of my seat. You told this story beautifully, with so much realness, so much truth about the layers and depth of our humanity.
The layer of this being part of your life-giving routine of greeting sun and feeling earth and reconnecting is a subtle and beautiful touch—underscoring how so many circumstances, so many stories live side by side, woven into the fabric of our daily lives.
Ohhh bless you Holly! That is such high praise! I’m blushing over here.
I’m so glad you appreciated the layers of this story. I was really trying to emphasise how these different experiences all overlap and interweave, and so, it means so much that you pointed that out. Thank you! :)
Triffik yarn ME - emotion captured and delivered... and I guess when all is said and done that Nietzsche's description of us - as the 'expendable masses' is shockingly more and more accurate.
I really appreciate that. And yes, sadly, I think Nietzsche was right with the word ‘expendable’. That big moustached bugger seemed to be right on the money far too often! :)
Yep Nietzsche was definitely hiding his secret weapon under his huge bristles.
PS Ab-Fab and so well done on getting the gig/interview with Kimberley Warner - remember I secured the job as your Minder/Chauffeur once you're really infamous and PS - there's no escaping our genes - you look like your Dad when I first met him all those light-years ago.
This was a stunning, heartbreaking story. Thank you for telling it with such fine detail that I felt that I was standing right beside you, heart beating in my throat. The humanity and the restlessness and the hope all mingled together beautifully. Well done, and I'm so sorry this happen.
Thank you Kendall. To hear that you felt like you was standing right beside me while reading this is such a compliment as a writer. It really means a lot. And I think what you said here — “ The humanity and restlessness and the hope all mingles together…” — is a fantastic encapsulation of what I was trying to convey. So, really, thank you. :)
Just wow all around, from the title to the epilogue. The physical description of Akshaya was especially harrowing. Grateful there's good people in the world like you and the brave first responders. Thank you for sharing this sad yet positive story with us mate!
Thank you Marmi! I’m so glad you could appreciate this story despite its sad content. And even though it’s sad, I’m happy to hear the descriptions of Akshaya came across as I experienced them — ‘harrowing’ is the right word.
THis confronting story is made beautiful through your use of language. You manage to instill and highlight the humanity so often lost in these kinds of tragedies.
Thank you Chicken! You are so damn kind. And I really appreciate that you felt the humanity of this experience was conveyed well. I couldn’t have written it without your guidance. :)
Hey Michael, I read this as soon as you posted but I couldn't respond in a comment straight away, I had to let it sit with me. It is an event in the lives of several people, you amongst them. The story of that event will stay with me too. Well written as always of course, beautiful in fact. I try to imagine that everyone is doing the best they can do at that moment of their lives, if I think that their best is not very good then that is my perception and my judgement. The young people overdosing are doing the best they can do, the park ranger with her judgements (I'm guessing) is doing the best she can do, you were doing the best you could do and so were the paramedics. Some of those people we see as heroes and some as life failures, but if we take our judgements out and see everyone as doing the best they can then maybe we would all have more compassion. No one truly knows another person's story because they have not lived their lives. And I found it also a moving moment that you did not know the name of the street and that it was a perfect delicate flower and your chosen title for your writing. Very well done.
It means so much that you took time to actually sit with this piece before commenting — that in itself is such a compliment.
Your kind words on my writing are always appreciated by me (and my ego).
And your thoughts about leaving our judgements out of it, and instead, trying to assume everyone is doing the best they can resonate with me deeply. We don’t know what other people’s lives are like and we don’t know that in their shoes we wouldn’t do the exact same thing. And, beyond that, I think, it is a nicer world to live in, if, whether it’s true or not, we assume everyone is doing the best they can. I’d rather believe that than the alternative.
And finally, I love love love that you noticed the flower title — that really is the name of the street, and so, once I found out what Akshaya’s name was, I just felt like the universe was being a little too on the nose with giving me that title haha.
Heart-breaking, Michael, and so well done. I'm glad you were there that morning. There are so many overwhelming problems in our society, too many people failed. Any moment when we can step up - even through the confusion of not knowing exactly what to do (we all feel that) - makes a difference. Thanks for sharing that experience.
Thank you, Robin. I really appreciate your kind words on the writing, and your thoughtful words on this messy and sometimes hard to navigate society and experiences we find ourselves. :)
Michael, I'm not sure what to say except thank you for sharing. You didn't just write about what happened; you felt it. Now, I feel it, too. Sometimes, being present means witnessing things you wish you hadn't. It means realizing how close suffering is to your well-being. It means not looking away. Thanks, man.
Thank you Michael. I really appreciate that you took the time to consider your response. And what you said here: “You didn't just write about what happened; you felt it. Now, I feel it, too.” — really means a lot. Both in that you can see I felt it, and that I was able to write it in such a way that helped you feel it.
Thank you man. As always, I really value your thoughts. :)
What a heartbreaking experience and story Michael. And I agree with you about the paramedics: "These people really are modern day heroes."
The very sad part though is the staggering number of people who die from drug overdoses and who get hooked in the first place. To me it represents a stark lack of a spiritually nourishing society. It's so very sad.
(and p.s. I just realized that I got so absorbed in your story that I forgot to say brilliant writing - perhaps the best compliment😉)
I totally agree with you Camilla. It is incredibly sad how many people get trapped and taken by addiction, drug overdoses, and other such maladies of the soul. As someone who has struggled with addiction it is something I find deeply disheartening. And like you said I do believe that in many cases there is a lack of spiritual nourishment. I heard it said once that — “The opposite of addiction isn’t sobriety, it’s purpose.” I would say purpose can also mean, connection, community, meaning, and spiritual exploration.
Also, I’m thrilled to hear you got so absorbed in the story — that is the highest compliment a writer can receive. :)
Michael, I have so much admiration for you as both a writer and a human being. Your lack of identification with ego is so refreshing, and your loving kindness and compassion are beautiful and inspiring to me. Just reading through all your reader's comments in itself is inspiring - you have such a gift Michael.
And I agree with Evelyn: "This confronting story is made beautiful through your use of language. You manage to instill and highlight the humanity so often lost in these kinds of tragedies."
And this is spot on: "“The opposite of addiction isn’t sobriety, it’s purpose.” I would say purpose can also mean, connection, community, meaning, and spiritual exploration."
Jamie recently shared this with me - I find it fascinating and wasn't aware that Carl Jung was a direct influence behind the 12 step program: https://www.instagram.com/p/DJ90G0jR-1f/
Aww thank you, Camilla. That is so nice of you to say. You are so sweet and I really appreciate it. Although, I must admit, I think my ego is still pretty big — I mean, I’m great, so how could it not be? Hehehe 🙃
Also, thank you for sharing that link about Jung and the 12 step program. I had no idea Jung had anything to do with that! How interesting! It also makes a lot of sense, though, the notion that many addicts are seeking spiritual connection. I didn’t go through the 12 step program in the traditional sense, but my sobriety journey definitely mimicked a lot of the steps, especially, opening up to spirituality.
Thanks Camilla :)
One of the things that’s so hard for paramedics in large centres is getting called to the same people over-dosing several times in the same week. I know first responders who have had to leave the field because of that challenge.
This is an important story, I’m glad you shared it. We can all play a role in helping others and your role in this story may have been lifesaving. Pointing out what a good job the ambulance attendants did, and how it restored your faith in that part of the system, gave me a lift.
The two best parts of this story are learning about your AMAZING morning routine and the reminder that we cannot turn away from the folks that may need our help.
Yes, I have heard similar stories about paramedics responding to the same people in the same week — that is so rough for everyone involved that it’s hard to even comprehend.
Hahaha thanks Donna, I’m glad you like my morning routine. It’s getting a bit harder now that it’s winter here, but I’m still doing it every day. And besides, aussie winters don’t have much on your Canadian ones!
And yes, I couldn’t agree more — “we cannot turn away from the folks that need our help”.
Thanks Donna :)
Michael, I read it. But it's so intense that I need to re-read it. I promise I'll drop you a line on it.
Thank you brother. I appreciate you taking it seriously enough to take some time and re-read. That means a lot :)
Impressionable, well written, and yes- very sad. I was drawn in by your morning routine, as well. I also am drawn to “feel the earth,” reconnecting with nature often. It’s something I feel I have to do every now and then. The rest of the story certainly is one I personally hope and pray would never happen again. You see, I’ve experienced that situation too many times. Your part in helping to save that woman’s life appreciated by me if no one else. And it doesn’t matter how much or how little you believe you contributed. I know, it’s scary to approach anyone in those moments to help. And still- you did. Thank You. It’s people like you we need more of in this great big mess. You are appreciated! ~Adriana
Thank you Adriana. Your thoughtful and kind words mean a lot. It certainly is scary to approach in these moments, but, as I’m sure know, sometimes, if we feel we can help we just have to try.
Also, I’m glad you feel drawn to connect to the earth from time to time — it is strangely nourishing. :)
You are very welcome Michael! Indeed the draw to nature is thrilling, and strange at once. It’s that beautiful spirit which carries us through life~ knowing it must be tethered here until we are no more. Have a wondrous day!
I couldn’t agree more.
Thank you Adriana, I hope you have wondrous day too :)
“Leaving the receiver atop its metal box, I ran across the park as a thousand thoughts crammed through the door of my mind. How do I know if she’s conscious? What do I do if she’s not breathing? Am I supposed to do CPR? What if she dies? What if she’s already. . .”
In an emergency situation like this, there’s always a correct way to proceed…retroactively. It’s paralyzing when all the possible things you could do all seem right, or wrong, or mutually exclusive but necessary. It’s terrifying because you don’t know what to do and have exactly zero time to think. You captured the urgency of this situation, from all directions, impressively.
More impressive were your actions. You did the best you could, taking cues from all parties. You were observant, equipping you with the details to aid paramedics. You were patient to try the pay phone again after the initial issue. You were also aware of James and his fiancée, familiar with an in the area in a way that may have encouraged him to seek help in a way he might not have if the Ranger alone was present. You did great work to facilitate the great work of the first responders.
In a story that points to so many societal issues larger than any single situation, it feels important to cling to the functioning branches. A compassionate citizen. A present Ranger (tension aside). Responsive, skilled responders. A health care team that got Akshaya through the OD. Yes, there’s a cycle that begins anew from there, but since I don’t know how to address the larger scale stuff, I’ll read this and breathe a sigh of relief that good people did a good thing to keep a human being alive.
Thanks for sharing this, Michael.
If there is ever an award for in-depth reading and equally exhaustive comments it has to go to you Michael.
Goddamn man, thank you. I don’t really even know where to start. I’m so thrilled that you felt I captured the million-different-possibilities-all-at-once-creating-an-overwhelming-sense-of-urgency. That means a lot. Your kind words on how I responded is equally meaningful. And what you said at the end about the deeper societal issues that such an event points to — I agree with you. All of it is so messy and hard to even begin untangling that, I was also just relieved that people came together in that moment to save her.
As always Michael, I appreciate your support. :)
Guess what I saw this afternoon, well before reading your story, in East Vic Park, laid out on the pavement around a metal signpost, abandoned: a raggedy small suitcase, a bottle of wine and a tattered black notebook, open and displaying large, awkward handwritten notes , There was also a shirt, wrapped around the post... I am not kidding. Your ranger may have succeeded in driving your friends out of West Perth. No doubt I will meet them in Vic Park sooner or later. Can't say I enjoyed reading your 'Mike Edward meets reality' story but then it was not meant to be enjoyed. It certainly held my interest in a kind of inwardly shuddering way. A few nitpicking comments: 'cue' not 'que' and 'affect' not 'effect'. Cheers
I think I meant “clue “ not “cue”
Ohh wow! That does sound eerily similar to my friends. I imagine will will probably see them in Vic Park at some point as I suspect they get around.
And thank Naomi, I think your words, “a kind of inwardly shuddering way” captures the feel of the piece very well. Also, I appreciate your comments — ‘affect’ v ‘effect’ always gets me haha. :)
I have since started rereading your story (interrupted by phonecalls and knocks on the door): What I especially liked, and it is one of your strengths, is the dialogue interspersed with your commentary (thoughts). And the authenticity of the dialogue. And the self deprecation and irony in going out to the park to relax... Yeah, right! One word of warning - I always understood that out of body experiences (i.e., you see the events including yourself projected out of the body - there is a moment of that in your story ) is a sign of trauma. Had it myself once. I knew I was traumatised when a person just in front of me, jumped into the path of a car deliberately. I am still not completely recovered. and like to avoid that point in the road. Hope we can soon hear you and Evie at the VPWG's gatherings.
Thank you Naomi. I’m so flattered you’d take the time to read my story a second time. And I really appreciate your compliments on my writing.
As for the trauma stuff, thank you, that is astute point. I didn’t put in the story as I just didn’t know how to place it, but when I got home that morning I was definitely in shock. I felt weird physically and emotionally and it basically threw me off for the whole day. I do feel as though writing the experience out did help in some way.
And I’m sorry to hear you were witness to that.
Yes, I can assure you Evie and I want to get back to the VPWG gatherings as soon as possible. :)
Wow. This story is heartbreaking in all the ways. But before I even dive in that, I have to say, your deft hand with storytelling astounds. I actually listened to this story in the car on my way back from an early morning appointment and I nearly had to pull over multiple times, I was so lost in the details unfolding before my eyes. Dramatic events aside, for me, the mic drop was at the end when you felt this momentary restoration of faith in "the system" only to realize that all the system can do is keep a heart beating and that has nothing to do with actually saving a life.
You might consider entering this story into a journal. It's quite extraordinary.
“… all the system can do is keep a heart beating and that has nothing to do with actually saving a life.”
— damnit Kimberly, how do you do that!? I said in our interview that you always sum things up in a way that resonates so much for me, and you just went and did it to a story I wrote! Hahaha
That’s exactly how I felt. I mean, I tried my best not to pass judgement and instead just tell the story as I experienced it, but yes, the mic drop at the end about “the system” both working in that one moment but failing on a larger scale was something I felt need to be touched on. And so, I’m thrilled to hear you not only drew out that takeaway, but that you summed it up so well.
Also, thank you so much for your kind words on my storytelling, that means a lot. And since you mentioned it, maybe I will see if I can float this by a journal. Thank you for the encouragement :)
Very confronting and sad situation to be in. You responded in the best way possible.
Well written Michael, the way you wrote it puts the reader write in your shoes, thinking how would I handle that situation.
Thanks Dad!
I’m happy to hear the writing helped you feel there with me. That’s the best compliment a writer can get. :)
Wow, wow, wow. Michael, I was on the edge of my seat. You told this story beautifully, with so much realness, so much truth about the layers and depth of our humanity.
The layer of this being part of your life-giving routine of greeting sun and feeling earth and reconnecting is a subtle and beautiful touch—underscoring how so many circumstances, so many stories live side by side, woven into the fabric of our daily lives.
Just fantastic writing, my friend.
Ohhh bless you Holly! That is such high praise! I’m blushing over here.
I’m so glad you appreciated the layers of this story. I was really trying to emphasise how these different experiences all overlap and interweave, and so, it means so much that you pointed that out. Thank you! :)
Triffik yarn ME - emotion captured and delivered... and I guess when all is said and done that Nietzsche's description of us - as the 'expendable masses' is shockingly more and more accurate.
Thank you Emmett!
I really appreciate that. And yes, sadly, I think Nietzsche was right with the word ‘expendable’. That big moustached bugger seemed to be right on the money far too often! :)
Yep Nietzsche was definitely hiding his secret weapon under his huge bristles.
PS Ab-Fab and so well done on getting the gig/interview with Kimberley Warner - remember I secured the job as your Minder/Chauffeur once you're really infamous and PS - there's no escaping our genes - you look like your Dad when I first met him all those light-years ago.
Hahaha yes, and it was quite the weapon too. Him at his cutting tongue.
And thank you, the interview with Kimberly was a lot of fun and she really made it a pleasure. And righto, I’ll remember that when I hit it big. :)
This was a stunning, heartbreaking story. Thank you for telling it with such fine detail that I felt that I was standing right beside you, heart beating in my throat. The humanity and the restlessness and the hope all mingled together beautifully. Well done, and I'm so sorry this happen.
Thank you Kendall. To hear that you felt like you was standing right beside me while reading this is such a compliment as a writer. It really means a lot. And I think what you said here — “ The humanity and restlessness and the hope all mingles together…” — is a fantastic encapsulation of what I was trying to convey. So, really, thank you. :)
Just wow all around, from the title to the epilogue. The physical description of Akshaya was especially harrowing. Grateful there's good people in the world like you and the brave first responders. Thank you for sharing this sad yet positive story with us mate!
Thank you Marmi! I’m so glad you could appreciate this story despite its sad content. And even though it’s sad, I’m happy to hear the descriptions of Akshaya came across as I experienced them — ‘harrowing’ is the right word.
Thanks mate! :)
THis confronting story is made beautiful through your use of language. You manage to instill and highlight the humanity so often lost in these kinds of tragedies.
Thank you Chicken! You are so damn kind. And I really appreciate that you felt the humanity of this experience was conveyed well. I couldn’t have written it without your guidance. :)
Hey Michael, I read this as soon as you posted but I couldn't respond in a comment straight away, I had to let it sit with me. It is an event in the lives of several people, you amongst them. The story of that event will stay with me too. Well written as always of course, beautiful in fact. I try to imagine that everyone is doing the best they can do at that moment of their lives, if I think that their best is not very good then that is my perception and my judgement. The young people overdosing are doing the best they can do, the park ranger with her judgements (I'm guessing) is doing the best she can do, you were doing the best you could do and so were the paramedics. Some of those people we see as heroes and some as life failures, but if we take our judgements out and see everyone as doing the best they can then maybe we would all have more compassion. No one truly knows another person's story because they have not lived their lives. And I found it also a moving moment that you did not know the name of the street and that it was a perfect delicate flower and your chosen title for your writing. Very well done.
Thank you April.
I appreciate everything about your comment.
It means so much that you took time to actually sit with this piece before commenting — that in itself is such a compliment.
Your kind words on my writing are always appreciated by me (and my ego).
And your thoughts about leaving our judgements out of it, and instead, trying to assume everyone is doing the best they can resonate with me deeply. We don’t know what other people’s lives are like and we don’t know that in their shoes we wouldn’t do the exact same thing. And, beyond that, I think, it is a nicer world to live in, if, whether it’s true or not, we assume everyone is doing the best they can. I’d rather believe that than the alternative.
And finally, I love love love that you noticed the flower title — that really is the name of the street, and so, once I found out what Akshaya’s name was, I just felt like the universe was being a little too on the nose with giving me that title haha.
Thank you April :)
Heart-breaking, Michael, and so well done. I'm glad you were there that morning. There are so many overwhelming problems in our society, too many people failed. Any moment when we can step up - even through the confusion of not knowing exactly what to do (we all feel that) - makes a difference. Thanks for sharing that experience.
Thank you, Robin. I really appreciate your kind words on the writing, and your thoughtful words on this messy and sometimes hard to navigate society and experiences we find ourselves. :)
Michael, I'm not sure what to say except thank you for sharing. You didn't just write about what happened; you felt it. Now, I feel it, too. Sometimes, being present means witnessing things you wish you hadn't. It means realizing how close suffering is to your well-being. It means not looking away. Thanks, man.
Thank you Michael. I really appreciate that you took the time to consider your response. And what you said here: “You didn't just write about what happened; you felt it. Now, I feel it, too.” — really means a lot. Both in that you can see I felt it, and that I was able to write it in such a way that helped you feel it.
Thank you man. As always, I really value your thoughts. :)