For the Love of a Student: Dear Ms. A

Dear Ms. Amber,

I remember telling you I wanted to die. You were the first adult I had ever been honest with about my struggles with suicidality. You were gentle but firm. You told me I could get through this and you weren’t going to let me kill myself.

Throughout the darkness of my trafficking during high school, you were like a big sister to me. Loving and kind, and spunky and sarcastic. You supported me through the darkest parts, and were there to celebrate with me in the triumphs. You were a shoulder to cry on and a silly dance party waiting to happen.

Thank you for giving me the chance to feel normal. To enjoy the things I loved. To escape into the arts and be comfortable in my own skin. Thank you for never giving up on me, even when I had given up on myself.

I am forever grateful for you and the light that you were in what seemed like a never-ending darkness. Please never let anyone dull that light.

Love you big,

Sam