“You know it's not the worst thing in the world to have somebody know who you are.” IdentityThe Words We Keep Author:Erin Stewart
“It's just, sometimes I can't breathe here, you know?" I do. I do know. I almost say it, too. But someone has to hold this family together” The Words We Keep Author:Erin Stewart
“I believed that if I was good enough--did enough--I could keep us from cracking.” BrokenThe Words We Keep Author:Erin Stewart
“It's just, I have this vision, you know? A world where your diagnosis doesn't define you, and getting help doesn't make you weak or dangerous or other. And sometimes I forget the world isn't there yet.” WorldWeakDiagnosisThe Words We Keep Author:Erin Stewart
“But that was at night, with no one around. I'm a different Lily there. I'm--I'm guerrilla poet Lily--and in the daytime, in front of everyone, I lose her.” NightLossThe Words We Keep Author:Erin Stewart
“Because you expect me to be perfect.' 'I've never asked you to be perfect, Lily.' 'You didn't have to ask!' I'm embarrassed by the waver in my voice, by the emotions bubbling to the surface. 'I'm the good girl. Because you need me to be. But i'm not perfect. I'm--' Broken Scared Covered in scars” PerfectBrokenAloneThe Words We Keep Author:Erin Stewart
“I pick and pick until the blood coats my fingertips, warm and wonderful. And I wonder why I ever stopped.” The Words We Keep Author:Erin Stewart
“Whenever I felt like that, I would have a chat with my own Fat Mary. She was like the sweet fresh air after the rain. She brought me newness, clarity, and relief. She managed to get in touch with and resurrect the free spirit deep inside me. Being one with the spirit allowed me to soar above my everyday reality. I marveled at the beauty of all life and savored the power and possibilities of my imagination.” InspirationalSpiritualityDeterminedSurvivorFighting SpiritFree SpiritPowerful WomanProcessing Emotions Book:Africa's Child Source: Africa's Child
“...but here's the thing: I am alone. I'm the only one who can hear the monsters, feel the panic. I'm the only one who can feel the urge to pick at myself drumming through me like an unstoppable rhythm. When the problem's in your head, no one can carry it but you.” The Words We Keep Author:Erin Stewart