TRIGGER WARNING - sexual assault
"You're not a victim for sharing your story. You're a survivor setting the world on fire with your truth. And you never know who needs your light, your warmth and raging courage" - Alex Elle
Poetry is something that has been a huge part of my life. It's something that has gotten me through so many hurdles in my life. It has been a way for me to express myself, as written word has often come easier to me than doing so verbally.
I took part in a fundraiser in May this year where I wrote a poem each day and shared on my personal Facebook page. This was to raise funds for HELP: Auckland - an organisation that supports survivors of sexual violence. Beyond that, it was a personal challenge for me to tap back into my creativity following my own sexual assault. They asked me recently if I would read a piece of poetry out at their HELP and Soul fundraiser - I accepted as public speaking is something I would like to get better at, and grow my confidence in.
I was lucky enough to be supported by my mum and two of my amazing colleagues made the trip up from Hamilton with me.
The poem:
