The Bite

I was thinking about a time in my life, 30 years ago. This was a time when I lived with an alcoholic partner and allowed her suffering to become my burden - for a little while. I'm so glad I learned from this experience and now let people carry their own baggage, walk their own paths and simply hold up a light to help them see and a mirror to show how beautiful they are, both in the struggle and when they let go of that which burdens them. I suppose this is part of unconditional love. That being said, I am eternally grateful to the friends who helped me and my partner at that time with what seemed like an impossible situation. They gently untangled the web that had held us immobile and we were able to move forward independently and without animosity. Peace to all.


Cool Spring to soothe the fear.
I remember walking through the night.
Not so much homeless I suppose
as unable to go home.

Bandaged where she bit me
when I tried to take her keys.

Ever the comic, I asked the doc
if the alcohol she consumed
would cleanse the wound,
this bloody half moon.

He smiled a half smile
and pierced me with the tetanus shot.

I forgave the bite
right through my shame
walking through the night
to sit on your porch until daylight came.

Bandaged where she bit me
when I tried to take her keys.

No idea how to tell my friends
longing for my own fresh bed
a peaceful place to lay my head
Knowing she can't stop for me.

-Gillian Cornwall, August 4, 2013.

If you or someone you know feels like drinking is taking away life force, if you drink to dull emotional or physical pain, then it may help you to speak with someone you trust, like a doctor or a counsellor. There are many ways to walk a healthy and joyful path, regardless of what the past has held for you.