Branches Book

BRANCHES

Light

Why have I chosen Ed over this—a life overwhelming light? I have finally fought for my own happiness And while peaks and valleys never cease to exist, Compared to Ed, this is bliss. Light and warmth stems from my friends—my soul people And the adrenaline we seek on adventures It stems from the sun, the outside, the campers, And perhaps, it stems from me, too. What I feel, now— it cannot be described, but heard Through song and dance, felt through wind— While swimming through Maine rapids, covered in dirt, Listening to “Uncle John’s Band” These waters are my sky—How far? No one of us can tell Take me to the river, where the sun is like gold on a moss-covered stone Follow the wild goose flight, here beside the rising tide And linger, half a summer’s night Peace, man—come within canoe call Be safe and warm when the rivers run uphill and the fish begin to fly Under branches lit up by the moon —Flashing like silver

Let there be songs to fill the air, to rock my soul During still moments in the pine grove of countless trees And a rendezvous in the blue For it’s always sunny at the Swift

Author’s Statement: Kiona McCormick

This piece expresses my emotions and experiences during critical points in my life, including my early childhood, my struggle with anorexia, and my recovery. My intentions for this piece are to explore the causes of what I went through, as well as demonstrate how I recovered. This piece is a passion for me because I am extremely interested in the causes of eating disorders and similar illnesses, and in the future, I want to help others who

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