Keep Getting Up
a poem describing the ravages of mental and chronic illness.
Note: Watch this poem in video format below.
Keep Getting Up
by Scott Ninneman
It jabs you with sinister lies
Sweeping you off your feet
Once down, it smirks and sneers at you
Gloating at your defeat
Keep getting up
It punches lungs with icy fists
Expelling air from rooms
Kicks your kidneys with mammoth strength
Makes you breathe toxic fumes
Keep getting up
It wrestles tears from arid eyes
Deep sadness rarely leaves
Shouts insults with sharp hurtful cries
Your heart in two it cleaves
Keep getting up
It steals your worth and hopes of peace
Pours salt in open wounds
It speaks of night that will not end
Then blocks the light of moons
Keep getting up
Your mind it strips of studied skills
Garnishing empty threats
Tramples your faith and cools your love
Cultivates mounting debts
Keep getting up
It swears no better days will come
The best has passed you by
Whispers secrets you tried to hide
Undermines every try
Keep getting up
It grinds its teeth through your weak soul
Rattling your iron cage
Laughs at its imminent win
Unfazed by righteous rage
Keep getting up
Please know its lies are never true
Your triumph is in sight
Your spirit will yet rise again
You mustn’t cease to fight
Keep getting up!
June 6, 2020
There’s a reason we call ourselves “mental illness warriors.” It’s a battle every day.
Hard days can feel impossible. Whether anxiety or depression, the weight of your mind and heart can smother your spirit. Yet, you must continue to fight. Some nights are long, but the sun always comes up.
Like a flame, you will rise again.
Until next time, keep fighting.
Start Today!
This is really powerful!
Thank you so much. That means a lot.