I Choose to REMAIN

I choose to REMAIN! 

Waves of heartbreak caused my pressure to rise 

Blood rushed with fervor coursing through my veins 

Embarrassment, shame, and depression moved in 

It’s so tempting to leave… but I choose to REMAIN! 

I saw others succeeding, accomplishing, building 

Their pockets are fat; their bodies lean and trim 

Their households are spotless, reputations glistening 

What could I celebrate? My prospects were grim 

When I focused on the negatives, I felt worse and worse 

Sinking in quicksand, drowning in doubt 

Falling deeper in darkness, a bottomless pit 

Then I hit rock bottom and longed to get out! 

I took inventory of my gifts and talents 

Of what made me unique in spite of my stains 

I realized that what I’ve been through is a story to tell 

So, I WON’T end my life…I choose to REMAIN! 

Our lives are like series that include highs and lows 

Comedies, dramas, informative documentaries 

No, it’s not always easy to remain on the stage 

There are times when stress brings us down to our knees 

But let’s remain steadfast…let’s choose to REMAIN 

Undaunted by the unfair, unexpected, uncalled for 

We may have been damaged, injured, and devastated 

But NO ONE can steal our ability to prosper! 

Let’s choose to REMAIN! 

Dedicated to those experiencing suicidal ideation and their loved ones 

Suicide Prevention poem 

By Rhue Rosa, LMSW 8/31/2026