in photograhy, poetry 149 Words

Jody’s Depression

My wife Jody suffered from depression (which eventually led to her fatal drug overdose), and I remember how frustrated I was that I couldn’t do anything to help. It came from inside her, and seemed to have little to do with how things were.

It’s been over 12 years since she’s been gone, and life goes on. When I took this photo, it reminded me of her depression, so I wrote down how I think she might’ve felt:

there’s a bright blue sky

just beyond these dark trees;

a wonderful world of beauty;

a world of light and love

where people wave and smile

and life…happens;

a world of fussy grandmas

and naughty grandchildren–

if only I could get beyond

these damn black trees!

it’s no use; they’re too thick.

maybe if I take more morphine,

i’ll get to that blue sky.

And that she did.

–photo by me

32 thoughts on “Jody’s Depression”

  2. Heartbreaking. I love your interpretation of the photo. Having experienced something of grief the last couple of years, I think I understand the isolation of depression better than I used to. I think your black trees and blue sky really explain it incredibly articulately.

    Like

    Reply

  12. I’m so sorry for your loss. I was diagnosed with depression as a teenager and it’s honestly a struggle. And sometimes you lose the fight. It’s not just tough for those that have it but for those around them too.

    Like

    Reply

  14. This is beautifully written, Michael. And such a challenging topic, that hits very close to home. Well done, sir, and I’m sorry for your loss.

    Like

    Reply

Leave a comment