LadyDen’s Poetry Cafe

[[be...]]

Wonderful words of support and  the Light that awaits all of us, when it is our time.

[[Bl...]]

 

She's Got It Right

 

It's been a little while since I've written in verse.

    I've not been the least bit inspired.

I run out of words to describe an illness so perverse.

    It can make one so weary and tired.

 

But then I was reminded by something a friend said to me.

    As she has struggled with BIND for years.

She said, "I'm getting pretty good at feeling pretty crappy."

    A sentiment that first moved me to tears.

 

On second thought, maybe she's figured this thing out.

    An outlook that helps her progress.

Handling adversity is what life's all about.

    Finding our purpose when under duress.

 

Despite my friend's pain and torment;

    all the symptoms she's suffered and endured.

She's looking forward, ever resilient.

    Never doubting that her healing's assured.

 

Everyday she takes time to be reflective.

    Grateful in spite of her circumstance.

Her gratitude reframes her perspective.

    To forge onward in life's grand game of chance.

 

She's done with all the "what ifs?" and "why me?"

    She accepts that this is her cross to bear.

She no longer waits to feel "healthy."

    As she relies on her faith and her prayers.

 

She still battles through anguish and misery.

    Her waves rise up then recede.

Getting through each day she claims victory.

    Gaining ground she will never concede.

 

She says, "I've only got one time slot on this earth.

    I'm all in, you won't see me fold"

"I will not let this illness define my self-worth.

    And I'll no longer put my life on hold."

 

Today, it's all she can do just to get out of bed.

    Tomorrow, maybe it's a walk with a friend.

She plays with the kids, fighting through fear and dread.

    No more waiting on the sidelines to mend.

 

It's all about forward movement.

    Having her symptoms but not letting them have her.

She will not succumb or relent.

    In rebuilding her life she will not be deterred.

 

So yes, I think my friend's got it right.

    Getting comfortable about being uncomfortable is the goal.

We will recover, a fact which will never leave our sight.

    In the meantime, remind ourselves we're in control!

 

By Blue Lion

 

 

 

[[be...]]

15 hours ago, [[B...] said:

She's Got It Right

 

It's been a little while since I've written in verse.

    I've not been the least bit inspired.

I run out of words to describe an illness so perverse.

    It can make one so weary and tired.

 

But then I was reminded by something a friend said to me.

    As she has struggled with BIND for years.

She said, "I'm getting pretty good at feeling pretty crappy."

    A sentiment that first moved me to tears.

 

On second thought, maybe she's figured this thing out.

    An outlook that helps her progress.

Handling adversity is what life's all about.

    Finding our purpose when under duress.

 

Despite my friend's pain and torment;

    all the symptoms she's suffered and endured.

She's looking forward, ever resilient.

    Never doubting that her healing's assured.

 

Everyday she takes time to be reflective.

    Grateful in spite of her circumstance.

Her gratitude reframes her perspective.

    To forge onward in life's grand game of chance.

 

She's done with all the "what ifs?" and "why me?"

    She accepts that this is her cross to bear.

She no longer waits to feel "healthy."

    As she relies on her faith and her prayers.

 

She still battles through anguish and misery.

    Her waves rise up then recede.

Getting through each day she claims victory.

    Gaining ground she will never concede.

 

She says, "I've only got one time slot on this earth.

    I'm all in, you won't see me fold"

"I will not let this illness define my self-worth.

    And I'll no longer put my life on hold."

 

Today, it's all she can do just to get out of bed.

    Tomorrow, maybe it's a walk with a friend.

She plays with the kids, fighting through fear and dread.

    No more waiting on the sidelines to mend.

 

It's all about forward movement.

    Having her symptoms but not letting them have her.

She will not succumb or relent.

    In rebuilding her life she will not be deterred.

 

So yes, I think my friend's got it right.

    Getting comfortable about being uncomfortable is the goal.

We will recover, a fact which will never leave our sight.

    In the meantime, remind ourselves we're in control!

 

By Blue Lion

 

Very insightful and so very true. Thanks for your words that help others to navigate their Benzo journey.

[[Bl...]]

 

Slow Down, Take a Breath!

None of us are guaranteed anything on the day of our birth.

We have but a brief slice of time to live on this earth.

No promises of health, success, fortune, or fame.

Just the opportunity to make a difference in life's timeless game.

 

Chance plays a large part in where our journey begins.

Where we go from there? Well, that largely depends...

Our experience flows from the endless string of decisions we make.

At times they're thoughtful and reasoned. Other times, rash and prone to mistake.

 

Take our reactions and responses to each day's events.

Are they well thought out and valid? Do they make common sense?

Or are they driven by our emotions with nary a pause.

Without consideration for the event's origin or cause.

 

So much happens all around us that is beyond our control.

Yet it consumes our thinking, at times wrenching our soul.

We can't affect the outcome no matter what course we take.

Still we worry and fret; a conscious choice we choose to make.

 

How much of our stress and anxiety does this pattern create?

Worrying about matters that are best left to fate.

Our minds create images, thoughts, and sensations.

About things that will never happen causing us untold frustrations.

 

For those of us already suffering from an over sensitized mind.

The choice to engage with these thoughts adds to our bind.

How can we train ourselves to avoid this trap.

And steer our minds clear from this unnecessary crap.

 

The secret is to find the space between stimulus and response.

And stop ourselves from just reacting to our many needs and wants.

Is this a situation where our actions can make a difference?

Or would our efforts be futile and otherwise frivolous?

 

Should we even bother thinking about everything that's transpired?

Just because something happens doesn't mean our opinion's required.

Be discerning regarding the mental energy we spend.

Give priority to that on which our well-being depends.

 

Withdrawal and recovery are rough roads to traverse.

A little self-discipline assures we don't make them worse.

It's no doubt a challenge with our nervous system run amok.

We need to slow down our thinking to steer clear of the muck.

 

So next time you come across a rabbit hole in your path.

Take a deep breath and ask yourself, "What value does it hath?"

You may find it best to pass on by; no need to inquire.

And save your anxious mind from getting bogged down in the mire! 

By Blue Lion

 

[[be...]]

6 hours ago, [[B...] said:

Slow Down, Take a Breath!

None of us are guaranteed anything on the day of our birth.

We have but a brief slice of time to live on this earth.

No promises of health, success, fortune, or fame.

Just the opportunity to make a difference in life's timeless game.

 

Chance plays a large part in where our journey begins.

Where we go from there? Well, that largely depends...

Our experience flows from the endless string of decisions we make.

At times they're thoughtful and reasoned. Other times, rash and prone to mistake.

 

Take our reactions and responses to each day's events.

Are they well thought out and valid? Do they make common sense?

Or are they driven by our emotions with nary a pause.

Without consideration for the event's origin or cause.

 

So much happens all around us that is beyond our control.

Yet it consumes our thinking, at times wrenching our soul.

We can't affect the outcome no matter what course we take.

Still we worry and fret; a conscious choice we choose to make.

 

How much of our stress and anxiety does this pattern create?

Worrying about matters that are best left to fate.

Our minds create images, thoughts, and sensations.

About things that will never happen causing us untold frustrations.

 

For those of us already suffering from an over sensitized mind.

The choice to engage with these thoughts adds to our bind.

How can we train ourselves to avoid this trap.

And steer our minds clear from this unnecessary crap.

 

The secret is to find the space between stimulus and response.

And stop ourselves from just reacting to our many needs and wants.

Is this a situation where our actions can make a difference?

Or would our efforts be futile and otherwise frivolous?

 

Should we even bother thinking about everything that's transpired?

Just because something happens doesn't mean our opinion's required.

Be discerning regarding the mental energy we spend.

Give priority to that on which our well-being depends.

 

Withdrawal and recovery are rough roads to traverse.

A little self-discipline assures we don't make them worse.

It's no doubt a challenge with our nervous system run amok.

We need to slow down our thinking to steer clear of the muck.

 

So next time you come across a rabbit hole in your path.

Take a deep breath and ask yourself, "What value does it hath?"

You may find it best to pass on by; no need to inquire.

And save your anxious mind from getting bogged down in the mire! 

By Blue Lion

[[be...]]

1 minute ago, [[b...] said:

6 hours ago, [[B...] said:

Slow Down, Take a Breath!

None of us are guaranteed anything on the day of our birth.

We have but a brief slice of time to live on this earth.

No promises of health, success, fortune, or fame.

Just the opportunity to make a difference in life's timeless game.

 

Chance plays a large part in where our journey begins.

Where we go from there? Well, that largely depends...

Our experience flows from the endless string of decisions we make.

At times they're thoughtful and reasoned. Other times, rash and prone to mistake.

 

Take our reactions and responses to each day's events.

Are they well thought out and valid? Do they make common sense?

Or are they driven by our emotions with nary a pause.

Without consideration for the event's origin or cause.

 

So much happens all around us that is beyond our control.

Yet it consumes our thinking, at times wrenching our soul.

We can't affect the outcome no matter what course we take.

Still we worry and fret; a conscious choice we choose to make.

 

How much of our stress and anxiety does this pattern create?

Worrying about matters that are best left to fate.

Our minds create images, thoughts, and sensations.

About things that will never happen causing us untold frustrations.

 

For those of us already suffering from an over sensitized mind.

The choice to engage with these thoughts adds to our bind.

How can we train ourselves to avoid this trap.

And steer our minds clear from this unnecessary crap.

 

The secret is to find the space between stimulus and response.

And stop ourselves from just reacting to our many needs and wants.

Is this a situation where our actions can make a difference?

Or would our efforts be futile and otherwise frivolous?

 

Should we even bother thinking about everything that's transpired?

Just because something happens doesn't mean our opinion's required.

Be discerning regarding the mental energy we spend.

Give priority to that on which our well-being depends.

 

Withdrawal and recovery are rough roads to traverse.

A little self-discipline assures we don't make them worse.

It's no doubt a challenge with our nervous system run amok.

We need to slow down our thinking to steer clear of the muck.

 

So next time you come across a rabbit hole in your path.

Take a deep breath and ask yourself, "What value does it hath?"

You may find it best to pass on by; no need to inquire.

And save your anxious mind from getting bogged down in the mire! 

By Blue Lion

Expand  

Perfect words and so very true, thanks for placing your words, they will help us.

[[Bl...]]

 

 

Where There's a Will...

 

I woke up this morning to find that my mind is reeling.

Crazy intrusive thoughts generating dreadful feelings.

I'd been doing a bit better, my symptoms had been receding.

But alas they've returned, the nature of non-linear healing.

 

When will it end? I'm so tired of this withdrawal.

My world's been turned upside-down, my life overhauled.

A slave to a bizarre illness to which I'm enthralled. 

And now once again, my recovery has stalled.

 

But I'm not discouraged. I do not despair.

I accept my plight. Who said life is fair?

I trust in my Savior and the power of prayer.

And I've learned a few lessons so I thought I'd share.

 

I've tried tackling each symptom to reduce my stress.

But that makes them last longer causing me greater distress.

My mind can't relax when I ruminate and obsess.

So I pay them no mind as I heal and convalesce.

 

Neurochemical induced fears, they are all benzo lies.

I've learned to stop chasing the 'What ifs?" and "Whys?"

This anxiety is just the drug wrapped up in disguise.

There are no truths to be found I now realize.

 

Building my resilience is my primary mission.

Learning how to live with this horrific condition.

Like getting daily exercise and proper nutrition.

Focusing on gratitude improves my disposition.

 

I've adopted a mindset to accept and allow.

This is my journey, I'll get through it somehow. 

I'll ride out the storm waiting for a break in the clouds.

And emerge from this darkness unbroken and unbowed.

 

I know I'm much tougher than I would ever have believed.

Withstanding relentless torment I couldn't have conceived.

No more chasing rabbits. I will not be deceived.

With time I know I'll heal and finally be relieved.

 

My motto is "Carpe Diem", I must seize the day!

Finding whatever joy I can, each moment and everyday.

I'm vertical and breathing and I know this sounds cliché.

But I will overcome this adversity, when there's a will there's a way!

 

By Blue Lion

 

 

Edited March 8 by [Bl...]

[[be...]]

3 hours ago, [[B...] said:

Where There's a Will...

 

I woke up this morning to find that my mind is reeling.

Crazy intrusive thoughts generating dreadful feelings.

I'd been doing a bit better, my symptoms had been receding.

But alas they've returned, the nature of non-linear healing.

 

When will it end? I'm so tired of this withdrawal.

My world's been turned upside-down, my life overhauled.

A slave to a bizarre illness to which I'm enthralled. 

And now once again, my recovery has stalled.

 

But I'm not discouraged. I do not despair.

I accept my plight. Who said life is fair?

I trust in my Savior and the power of prayer.

And I've learned a few lessons so I thought I'd share.

 

I've tried tackling each symptom to reduce my stress.

But that makes them last longer causing me greater distress.

My mind can't relax when I ruminate and obsess.

So I pay them no mind as I heal and convalesce.

 

Neurochemical induced fears, they are all benzo lies.

I've learned to stop chasing the 'What ifs?" and "Whys?"

This anxiety is just the drug wrapped up in disguise.

There are no truths to be found I now realize.

 

Building my resilience is my primary mission.

Learning how to live with this horrific condition.

Like getting daily exercise and proper nutrition.

Focusing on gratitude improves my disposition.

 

I've adopted a mindset to accept and allow.

This is my journey, I'll get through it somehow. 

I'll ride out the storm waiting for a break in the clouds.

And emerge from this darkness unbroken and unbowed.

 

I know I'm much tougher than I would ever have believed.

Withstanding relentless torment I couldn't have conceived.

No more chasing rabbits. I will not be deceived.

With time I know I'll heal and finally be relieved.

 

My motto is "Carpe Diem", I must seize the day!

Finding whatever joy I can, each moment and everyday.

I'm vertical and breathing and I know this sounds cliché.

But I will overcome this adversity, when there's a will there's a way!

 

By Blue Lion

Once again Blue you have bared your soul and your thinking is spot on.

"Accept and Allow" says it all. Thank you, with your words you are helping others to get through one of the hardest things we have ever done. Stay Strong.

[[Bl...]]

1 hour ago, [[b...] said:

Once again Blue you have bared your soul and your thinking is spot on.

"Accept and Allow" says it all. Thank you, with your words you are helping others to get through one of the hardest things we have ever done. Stay Strong.

Thank you so much, begood! Your comments are very much appreciated!

[[Bl...]]

 

The Conversation - II

 

Good morning my friend, How the heck have you been?

It's been a while since we talked, I thought I'd check in.

The last time we spoke, I remember you were having a rough go.

You were having a hellacious time, coming off a benzo.
 

And I still am, but I’ve been researching what has happened to me.

There are benzo forums where others discuss their recovery.

It’s overwhelming, stories so anguishing with no end in sight.

The more I learn about benzos, the more my mind’s filled with fright!

 

Understanding your injury is beneficial, of course.

And for twinship and comfort, forums are an excellent source.

But beware of becoming a bead collector.

Or your mind will create for you a haunting specter. 
 

Bead collector, I’ve not heard that before.

Create a haunting specter…please tell me more.

With the forums, it feels good to know I’m not alone.

That what I am experiencing isn’t some freakish unknown.
 

True enough, but as you say, it can be overwhelming.

The dreadful tales of others aren’t exactly dispelling.

It's not wrong to gather information and continue to learn.

But if it leads to “Oh no’s” and “What ifs,” that can be of concern.

 

From their stories I learn what benzo withdrawal is all about.

But I do find at times, their tales can really stress me out.

Last week I was reading about people with tinnitus.

Soon my ears started ringing. A case of "me too-itis!"

 

That is what I am saying. Remember state drives story.

What we fill our minds with can become inflammatory.

Quieting the nervous system should be the primary goal.

That's tough to do when you're chasing the rabbit down its hole.

 

I can see what you mean, but isn't information knowledge?

These forums can be helpful. It's like attending Benzo College.

There is so much that I don't know that I can learn from others.

And I feel so supported by my benzo sisters and brothers.

 

Indeed, my friend, and I’m all for education.

But remember you're suggestible as you gather information.

There can be a little risk in collecting all these beads.

The advice and tips of others may not always serve your needs.
 

So, you're saying that all I'm reading may plant suggestions in my head.

That becoming aware of other's torment would be better left unread?

But I learn of the success stories; how survivors made it through.

The tools they used to make their way, their techniques and "How to’s..."
 

We both have learned that in recovery, no two journeys are the same.

Whether it's a symptom someone has or how they play the game. 

Just maintain your perspective and be wary not to assume,

that how it goes for others is how it will go for you. 

 

I appreciate your words of caution and I'll take heed of what you say.

But in the forums, I find connection so I will not stay away.

It feels good to be encouraging and offer others my support.

 But I'll be mindful of the thoughts and images their stories may import?

 

 That you all have a shared experience can certainly be reassuring.

It's consoling knowing there's others who've survived what you're enduring.

Be careful that the time you spend doesn't increase your distress.

So, manage your time wisely and be thoughtful not to obsess.
 

Your thoughts are always welcome, and I value your insights.

I'll keep this all in mind as I surf the benzo websites.

Thanks for reaching out today. It's always good to see you.

It's such a blessing you're in my corner to help me see this through.

By Blue Lion

[[be...]]

9 hours ago, [[B...] said:

The Conversation - II

 

Good morning my friend, How the heck have you been?

It's been a while since we talked, I thought I'd check in.

The last time we spoke, I remember you were having a rough go.

You were having a hellacious time, coming off a benzo.
 

And I still am, but I’ve been researching what has happened to me.

There are benzo forums where others discuss their recovery.

It’s overwhelming, stories so anguishing with no end in sight.

The more I learn about benzos, the more my mind’s filled with fright!

 

Understanding your injury is beneficial, of course.

And for twinship and comfort, forums are an excellent source.

But beware of becoming a bead collector.

Or your mind will create for you a haunting specter. 
 

Bead collector, I’ve not heard that before.

Create a haunting specter…please tell me more.

With the forums, it feels good to know I’m not alone.

That what I am experiencing isn’t some freakish unknown.
 

True enough, but as you say, it can be overwhelming.

The dreadful tales of others aren’t exactly dispelling.

It's not wrong to gather information and continue to learn.

But if it leads to “Oh no’s” and “What ifs,” that can be of concern.

 

From their stories I learn what benzo withdrawal is all about.

But I do find at times, their tales can really stress me out.

Last week I was reading about people with tinnitus.

Soon my ears started ringing. A case of "me too-itis!"

 

That is what I am saying. Remember state drives story.

What we fill our minds with can become inflammatory.

Quieting the nervous system should be the primary goal.

That's tough to do when you're chasing the rabbit down its hole.

 

I can see what you mean, but isn't information knowledge?

These forums can be helpful. It's like attending Benzo College.

There is so much that I don't know that I can learn from others.

And I feel so supported by my benzo sisters and brothers.

 

Indeed, my friend, and I’m all for education.

But remember you're suggestible as you gather information.

There can be a little risk in collecting all these beads.

The advice and tips of others may not always serve your needs.
 

So, you're saying that all I'm reading may plant suggestions in my head.

That becoming aware of other's torment would be better left unread?

But I learn of the success stories; how survivors made it through.

The tools they used to make their way, their techniques and "How to’s..."
 

We both have learned that in recovery, no two journeys are the same.

Whether it's a symptom someone has or how they play the game. 

Just maintain your perspective and be wary not to assume,

that how it goes for others is how it will go for you. 

 

I appreciate your words of caution and I'll take heed of what you say.

But in the forums, I find connection so I will not stay away.

It feels good to be encouraging and offer others my support.

 But I'll be mindful of the thoughts and images their stories may import?

 

 That you all have a shared experience can certainly be reassuring.

It's consoling knowing there's others who've survived what you're enduring.

Be careful that the time you spend doesn't increase your distress.

So, manage your time wisely and be thoughtful not to obsess.
 

Your thoughts are always welcome, and I value your insights.

I'll keep this all in mind as I surf the benzo websites.

Thanks for reaching out today. It's always good to see you.

It's such a blessing you're in my corner to help me see this through.

By Blue Lion

Perfect your conversation with your Friend, such a wonderful Friend you are. I was thinking that maybe you should place this on the Withdrawal Forum, this should be read by all. Thanks again for your words of encouragement to all.