my nails are chewed down to the quick, but i am clawing my way out

of darkness, and of overwhelming light

it seems like i’m not moving until i look back. 

By Bry LeBerthon

“. . . waiting . . .”

Fiction. Based on a True Moment I Wished Would Pass.

by Gracie

This journal entry is inspired by true events. Some of the characters, names, businesses, incidents, and certain locations and events have been fictionalized for dramatic purposes. Any similarity to the name, character or history of any person is entirely coincidental and unintentional.

Trigger Warning: our program often motivates people to discuss their trauma. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, please, take a step back to address emotional flashbacks and trauma before continuing to push yourself. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or the National Suicide Hotline at (1-800) 273-8255.

Tapping your 

feet or fingers.

Playing with 

your hair,

your phone,

the hole in your jeans.

Your body

moving and 

trying to

‘shake it off.’

The click of 

a pen.

The thumping 

of your shoes.

The ticking 

of a clock on a wall.

A gun

waiting for 

its trigger 

to go off.

And you’re 

the target.