I chose to live! – from sadness to pics, poetry and adventures
Below is my story… A story of how I broke free from sadness, to embrace pics, poetry and adventure!
Hello, readers! My name is Molly Gentzsch, and I live in Salem, Oregon. It is a city that has not been too kind to me, but I keep coming back to it. I guess I tend to get stuck in the past. There are memories living on every sidewalk, and I let them pass by me as I keep my head down. I have had a hard life. At sixteen, I was not living at home, instead I got by sleeping under bridges or crashing on couches. I just never quite fit in anywhere, so I dealt with my insecurities by becoming an addict. I dealt with addiction, the death of several friends, abuse, homelessness, and self-harm all before the age of 19.
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Dark years – drowning in alcohol
It’s such a slow death
becoming a ghost
of the girl
I used to be
afraid of my own breath
because I’m always
feeling haunted
by me.
I think that when a person is given a difficult life, they have a choice in what to do with all that misfortune. I have seen so many people in this town choose to drown it away in beer and whiskey, and I watch them slowly turn into those sad drunks they promised they would never be. In my life I almost became that, just another useless drunk trying desperately to feel like anyone but themselves. It has always been hard for me to truly connect with people, they have caused me so much disappointment. I drank so that I could forget all of that and become the girl that others could find likable. After two shots, I was relaxed and smiling. After four shots, I would become your new best friend. So talkative. So personable. That shy girl who wanted nothing more than to disappear into the corner of the bar, becoming just another shadow for you to pass by, was suddenly the life of the party. Suddenly life did not seem so hard. For a few hours everything was just fine, but the morning never failed to come.
My best friend – my everything
You and I
we are the fire
that will set this
entire town ablaze
let it burn, dear
we were born
to be embers.
My big wake-up call did not just stop me from drinking, but it also changed my entire world. My best friend was walking light. She understood me in a way that comforted the pain. She knew all my secrets and was the only person who could get me to dance wildly in the living room. She was my everything. She was broken in the same way as me, and she dealt with it by taking Chardonnay medicine. I remember one night when we sat at the back of the bar, we had just been to a funeral of an old friend who decided to end it all. The boy who was my first love was now being hidden in the dirt. She told me that she understood why he did what he did, how things can get so overwhelming that even breathing felt like an exhausting task. I told her that her empathy was beautiful, and that I loved the way she saw the world.
She put her drink down and said, “I may see the world in a beautiful way, but what is the point if I am not happy in it?”
My last conversation with her turned into one of those moments that I will constantly look back on and wish I had done something different. She had been drinking a lot, and she asked me to come hang out with her because she was having a rough night. At the time I was with a guy who had recently broken my heart, and I was in the middle of trying to work things out. So, I told her that I was busy, and I chose not to go. A choice I will always regret.
A heavy loss – my life was changed forever
I let my eyes wander
to the old oak trees
let the branches take me
twist around these arms
wrap around these knees
my skin becomes the bark
my heart becomes the leaves
for they fall every winter
just like I fell for you
and though I am bare
you hold me in your sunlight
a warmth I look forward to.
I got the call the next day while I was alone in my apartment. I found out that at 3am while I was sound asleep, she had gotten so drunk and sad that she killed herself with a sheet. Since I was her best friend, and had spoken to her the night before, they asked me if I had known what she was going to do. I was accused of knowing and doing nothing. I threw my phone against the wall and crumpled into the carpet. I do not think I had ever felt so alone or disgusted than I did in that instant. All it took was a few minutes for my life to change completely, and to break parts of me that would never be repaired. My heart had fallen apart into hundreds of tiny pieces, too small to put back together, and when I replayed those words on the phone, I felt those pieces turn to ash in my hands.
My resurgence – A pen and a camera to fly away
And when we kiss
our bodies build
a bridge
so that I may
skip across the stars
in order to reach
the heavens of
your arms.
Her death made me realize that if I followed the road I was walking down, I was going to end up six feet under. I put down the whiskey, and I knew that I needed to push myself to do something different. I had to put myself out there, I had to let myself belong to the world that I had pushed away. I had all these feelings and thoughts that I needed to express. So, one day I just started taking photos. I wanted to show people my own unique perspective, and in my mind, I was always dedicating these snapshots of my life to her. I also picked up the pen and began writing again. A lost activity of mine. I decided to let my photos inspire all the words I had locked away. My favorite part of
* photography is that I am always trying to show people just how beautiful the world can be. There’s always something around you that deserves a closer look, you just need to open your eyes and find it.
Life is not easy, but it is too precious – in loving memory
You took my hand
as we crossed
the street
and in that second
it felt as though
the sparks from
our fingertips
had lit up the
whole world
setting fire to a
starless sky.
So now my life is filled with adventures, instead of sitting at home with a bottle. The thing is that it could have been me. Her and I shared the same issues, the same addictions, the same fuck ups. She chose to leave, and I will never be mad at her for making that choice, but I chose to stay. I know that I am one of those people who things will never be easy for, and I accept and embrace that. Let those obstacles come, I will always fight, and I will always be capturing those moments that make others nostalgic for memories that are not even their own. Every flash of brilliance that I encapsulate is for her. I enjoy my days on the run, searching for new memories to make in a world that I had neglected. We all have choices to make, my choice will always be to connect with the lives and wonderment around me. Life is too important, so I will spend my years welcoming it and sharing these small pieces of who I am. Hopefully they are pieces that others will understand and relate to. I want them to know that they are not alone in their fight. There is still so much of this world to see.
Molly
I think I’ll always miss
those winter nights
but I must admit
that my lips smile more
on days when
they’re kissed
by spring.
PS.
To see more of my pictures and read more of my poems, please follow me on Instagram:
My Instagram account: mollymaven13
*
A very emotional piece! I’m really sorry about the loss you had I suffer, but it’s a brave thing you did by deciding to move on in a positive light. I believe sometimes, it takes the darkest night for the brightest start to shine brightly.
You’ve faced your demon, and you’ve overcome. I do hope your story helps someone do the same too
Thank you so much, Your kind words mean so much to me. It was a hard piece to write, but like you mentioned, I hope it can reach and help someone in some way.
Not many people have the strength you have, to take such a sadness and learn from it to change your life for the better. At least you know her memory won’t be in vein by changing your life in a positive way. I’m so sorry for your lost but I thank you for sharing with the world. Hopefully more can learn from you 🙂
Nick,
Thank you so much for your kind words and support! It really does mean the absolute world to me. I think more than anything, I just don’t want those who are struggling to feel alone. I want them to know there are others out there, and need to all be supporting one another. Thank you again for reading my piece, you are amazing!
Hi Molly,
I cried reading your article, I cried so hard. I only see stories like this in books or movies, but never saw one in real life.
I know this is just a blog, but I felt like you were speaking to me while I read.
I suffered depression from birth control until I was about 20. I understand the urge that comes with suicide.
I am grateful now, I am free and I am also a poet.
I’m crying reading your response. When I wrote this, I hoped more than anything it would reach someone like you. Someone who is strong but delicate. I am so happy that you are stronger now, and please get in contact with me! I would love to read your poetry. Thank you so much for your words.
You take such beautiful pictures and write words that match in complexity and splendor. You have told a very sad story here based on your life events and I feel that you have become incredible as a result of your perseverance and dedication to your new found passion. Keep it up! I feel like your current story has just begun!
Wow, thank you so much. Reading this comment made me smile. Going through what I did absolutely made me a better human being. What you said means so much to me. You’re so right, my story has just begun.
Your story is beautifully sad, but I feel it will have many happy moments from now on. As a poet, I know you know what I mean about beautifully sad. Even in sadness there is divinity. Though, I hope you can find away to stay eloquently a poet and master of words at the same time finding absolute peace within yourself. You can break those Karmic chains, and you can break that past. It is no easy task, but neither is going through what you have been through and how you walked through hell and kept on walking.
You will never know what could have or what would have happened if you went there. You could have gotten so depressed and intoxicated you may have hurt yourself as well. I know the world needs you, and I know you will do great things. May I try to write something for you? It probably will not be as eloquent as you are, but it will be my gift to you.
The chains you wear around your wrist, as you walk upon the mist, compares not to your distant your past, that weights you done upon your path. Someday soon you’ll find a key, in plain sight but was hard to see. Alas you unlock those chains, you feel the pain just float away. You don’t know if you are alive or dead, except you no longer feel those dreads. The voices quiet down in inside. You break free from you hide. Born again as conscious light, ready for another fight. This time its a good cause, you’ll free others karmic law. Alive more than you ever been, this fight you will surely win.
Be Blissfully Blessed beautiful soul.
Sara,
Your words filled me with such a feeling of inner peace and strength. Your poem brought tears to my face, I have never been so honored. You are a lovely writer! I cannot thank you enough for what you have written. You are right, I’m a fighter, and this is a fight I will win. Sending you so much love.
A very poignant story with stunning images. You certainly have an eye for photography so this is your perfect niche. The font size and color for your page reflects the softness and sadness of your story. It was beautifully written and would capture anyone’s heart. Your topic is very relevant. People need to hear a sad story that can have a happy ending. And you tell it and show it so impactfully. Congratulations on a beautiful and perfect post on the beautiful and perfect Lara’s blog!
Jean,
Thank you so much for your kind words! They mean so much to me. I completely agree, people need to know that life is always worth fighting for, and light always comes from darkness. It won’t always be difficult, and even when it is, it is important to know that those bad experiences do help you grow. Thank you again for your support. You’re amazing.
Hi Molly, your story got me tearing up. It is indeed a rough journey. I truly understand how you must have felt at the age of 16 having to deal with life difficulties at such a tender age that you needed care and succor.
Life is full of ups and downs, I am sorry to see your best friend go, but thank God you did a u-turn and found inspiration in photography. Reading through your write up and looking at these pictures, they truly captured the moment you wanted it to capture.
Hold fast to your new found adventure, it is going to be happiness all the way.
Gracen,
Thank you so much. I am very grateful for your kindness and encouragement. Yes, I was given a lot of obstacles at a very young age, but those moments did make me into the compassionate and strong woman I am today. Thank you again, you’re right. Happiness all the way!
Hi Molly,
I am so sorry to hear about your many unfortunate experiences. I cannot imagine what i would be if my best friend called and did the same thing to me, i would probably not be the same. You know what you are just so brave and strong I salute you for that. Keep up to the good work. Life is too precious and short to be miserable. I am glad you found a new purpose in life.
Nuttanee,
Thank you for your kindness and support. It means so much to me. My life has never been acknowledged in this way, so this really does touch me. I am glad I found a new purpose as well. Sending you love.
When I saw your pic at first I said to myself what a beautiful girl then I read the first content and I feel like crying though tears didn’t drop out of my eyes but my heart soaks for you nevertheless you last contents in your article was superb. Dealing with bad memories is to me is the most dangerous disease. Molly please do me a favour, please don’t stop your new passion it’s really motivating and inspiring. I wish many girls are like you. Molly you are a courageous and a superstar.
Chris,
I cannot thank you enough for your lovely and encouraging words. I promise not to stop my new passion, I’ll let it take me wherever it wants to, and it’ll be a soul warming journey. Your support really touches my heart. Being called a “superstar” truly made me smile.
There is such a powerful correlation between the images and your story. The images reflects your heart felt emotion, I am really sorry about all you had to went through. One thing that inspired me in your story despite the challenges you faced is you never gave up. You have proven that no challenges can break you, you have saw and you have conquered. You are really a source of inspiration to me. Thanks for sharing this experience.
Achievers,
Thank you so much. It still completely boggles my mind that I can inspire people, so your words just mean so much to me. I’m sending you so much love. I was more than happy to share my experience, it just felt right. Thanks again.
Thanks for writing out this lovely article and I must say its a must for everyone to read and digest. Life never seems the way we want but we play it the best way we can.
You article got me thinking like am watching a Bollywood movie. You saw, you engaged and you overcame. I really feel for you about what you experience, those pictures really match the words. I am sure this will be of help to someone reading this. Best regards
Adamuts,
Wow, thank you so much! I do hope others will read this and find their own strength in it. If I can help even one person, that is worth everything. Thanks again for your encouragement and support. It really means so much.
Hello! (:
I read through your post, and I am really sorry to hear about your friend passing away. I think that your story is inspiring, and I definitely gained some experiential knowledge by reading it. I have never struggled with alcohol addiction, though I have drank much in the past, but I did struggle to stop smoking. Now, I have moved on to vaping.
And I know that smoking cigarettes won’t cause you to wreck a car necessarily like alcohol can, but it was still a significant struggle I faced. But anyway, I really enjoyed reading your content!
I wish you much continuing success,
Joshua
Joshuam99,
Hello there! Thank you so much for your kind words and support. I’m so glad my struggle was something you could relate to and hopefully find strength in. We all have our addictions, the world is a very harsh place and we do what we need to in order to get by. I’m so glad you were able to overcome your struggle. Thank you again for your support. Sending love your way.
Thanks for sharing this with us Molly,
While reading through I looked back what I went through too and I can totally relate to what you’re going through. I had depression back in school and I was surrounded by bullies who made my life miserable until one day, I had this realisation that I wanted to live so I strived through those hard moments. It’s hard and at times, we won’t even know why we’re doing it but I trust one day that pain will bear beautiful fruit especially for you 🙂
Riaz Shah,
Thank you so much for reading this, and for your kind and relatable words. I am so sorry you also dealt with bullying and depression in school. Going through those moments at that age has such a lasting impact, but it does make us more compassionate and strong. I am so grateful that you fought through it, you deserve to be here. I agree, the fight is hard at times, but like you, I trust that it is all worth it. I know that it is. Thank you again.
I don’t have much to say because I am short of words. How you transformed your life to this beauty amazes me and I was so moved by the poems. The pictures are beautiful and topnotch and I just wish I could be like you. Just transform my life to something more fun and easy. You are inspiring!
Linus,
Wow, thank you so much. You may have been short on words, but the words you did give made me so grateful and brought the biggest smile to my face. I am so happy you were moved by my poetry, that’s all I could ever hope for. You don’t need to wish that you could be like me, you can transform your life as well. I promise. We all have more strength and abilities than we could ever know. You’re amazing. Sending you love.
Hello Molly,
This story is really touching, reading the lines especially where you lost your best friend made me burst in tears. I can clearly relate with everything you stated above, I happen to be an asthmatic patient that was suffering from depression and inferiority complex. I went online then to buy books that could motivate and change my orientation towards life. This write up is superb, am just grateful I could fine this piece today. I am gaining more inner strength. Please am I permitted to share the post link to a friend who is a sickle cell anaemia patient ,also facing depression and rejection.
Labulo Funmilayo,
Your comment has truly touched me. I am so sorry for your struggle, but I am so grateful that you are being proactive in trying to change your outlook. It’s a very difficult task, but I promise you have the strength to do so. I’m so glad that you were able to gain more inner strength, that’s all I could ever want for you. Yes, please share with anyone who is struggling and needs to find their strength. I’m so happy I could connect with you. You have no idea how much your words mean to me. Keep fighting. You are incredible. You are strong. Sending you love.
Thanks for writing article on you chose to embrace poetry, pic and adventure from sadness. I must commend you for a well done job for taking your time to write this article on your true life story for people to learn from. I am really happy for you because out of experience only few people break out from this predicament. I truly learned a lot from your story.
ajibola40,
Thank you so much for reading it! I agree, a lot of people have a hard time finding their way out of the pain, but I will always be rooting for them. I can’t thank you enough for your kind words. Be well.
Wow, an incredible story! Hopefully your story can help countless others who felt as lost as you did. But you overcame and you should be so proud of that! You might not realize it, but your story is an inspiration. Keep it up, I have a feeling you are gonna go very far in life!
Thomas,
Wow, thank you so much! It really does mean the world to me to hear that. I never expected to inspire anyone, but if I can, that will definitely have made all of the struggle worth it. Thank you again. Sending you so much love!
Sorry about your sad experiences. It is not a funny one. Life is not easy and tends to be hard on people. You are just a strong woman. Yes you are strong to have faced all these and still capable to take the path of adventurous life. That’s awesome and it brings happiness. Keep moving forward you are already doing well and better than old days. I wish you well in your journey of life.
Kenechi,
Thank you so much, from the bottom of my heart. Your kind words of support mean so much to me. I’ll always keep moving forward, and I am wishing you well in your life too! Sending love your way!
These are sets of touching poetry and I love them.
Especially the decisions of choosing to live from sadness.
I wish your friend could see how you chose to live.
Too sad to know how her life was cut short by the sheet.
This is a very emotional post and I am not sure I can find the right words.
But please know that I really admire you.
Michelle,
Wow, thank you so much. It really does mean a lot that you enjoyed my writing and found it touching. That’s all I could ever hope for. Yes, I wish my friend could have stayed here with us all. I can’t thank you enough for your kind words and support. Truly.
There is a reason that I never or hardly judge people. I do not know where they are coming from, I do not know their stories and I could be doing more harm than good judging them. My heart broke in pieces when I read about your best friend. Situations like that are the reason why it seems like I am always there for family and friends.
I might never forgive myself if I were you and I am so glad that you found a way to beat all of this. Photography helps not only you who has shot it but also he people who come across it. May your friends’ souls continue to rest in Peace and May your zeal for life burn brighter than it always did.
Vapz,
Thank you so much. I think that your compassion is admirable, and I’m glad that you are not one to judge others so easily. That is such an important quality. I hope others follow your lead. Thank you again for reading, and for your kind words and encouragement. Sending you love!
Hello Molly. It is very brave of you to pen your life story, sharing with the rest of the world. People need to know this and I believe you are helping many lost souls out there. I can’t write as well as you thus have limited comforting words for you. But I know you have already found yourself. This is the beginning of a beautiful journey. Take care! Sharon
Also, lovely poems and pictures!
Sharon,
Thank you so much. Honestly, if my story can help even one person, my struggle will have been worth it. Trust me, your words of support and kindness are incredibly comforting and I am extremely grateful for them. I can’t thank you enough. Be well.
Molly, I have such a respect for you. You’ve been through so much but didn’t give in. Life is tough but precious, I agree.
Every photograph is like a little memory, for yourself and sometimes for other as well. The important thing is you find what matters to you, what makes you feel good about yourself and be true and loyal to yourself.
Best,
Katya
Katya,
Thank you so much! I completely agree, I think one of the most important things one can do is find what drives them. Having that passion helps one fight. Thank you again for your kind words! Sending you love!
Your story is so challenging. My heart melted in the line “Life is not easy, but it is too precious – in loving memory”. It’s so true. I have some unwanted memories of my life. I want to forget it but I can’t. And sometimes it is disturbing my present life. Actually, you are right, we have to push ourselves to do something different. When I connect your pictures with your poems, thousands of meaning arises of life.
Thank you very very much for sharing this awesome post. Just wanted to end my comment with your words,
Let those obstacles come.
I will always fight.
Sincerely,
Ranao.
Rgpratap,
I cannot thank you enough for these kind words and for your support. I feel for you, and have much respect and admiration for you fighting in your own journey. It is not easy. I am so glad my words connected with you, I am unbelievably grateful. Sending you lots of love!
Its amazing how your post has really inspired me. I am glad you were able to shake off sadness away from your life and now your doing what you love to do that brings you joy and happiness. Now you are happy because you can find the most expression of yourself in what you do presently. This post of yours has really sparked something up in me and i am already motivated. Thanks so much for this. I hope to read more of your posts subsequently. Cheers!
Dapoach,
Wow! Thank you so much! If my words were able to give you any kind of inspiration, then I am incredibly grateful. Hold onto that spark! Sending you love! Cheers!
The inclusive story was really a touching one that I can’t really fathom how the the experience will be on the victim. Life is not that easy but too precious, when its trial comes to person, we have to find something or someone that can help to mitigate and overcome it trial to be a conqueror eventually. All the pictures in this article really inspire me and leave a lasting effects on my mind of the poetry and adventure attached. Poetry, pictures and adventure are intertwined as they are connected use to lift up minds in trials of life. It is my delight to read this interesting touching story that inspired me also. Thanks for sharing.
Topazdude,
Thank you so much for reading my piece! I am so grateful that you could find inspiration from my photos and my words. Your kindness and support means so much, truly. Be well.
A really gripping and at the same time sad read, most of us handle some kind of addiction for a period in life, and the sadness it can bring can destroy us.
It’s also sad to read about your loss, something else we all have face at some point in time.
What’s great is how you’ve managed to find something so powerful to change your course, or path, and even vent your creativity.
A really interesting article, and journey you’ve been on!
Chris,
Thank you so much for reading my words, and for your kind and supportive response! It means so much. Yes, it’s definitely been an interesting journey! I’ll always be grateful that I found something to be passionate about and that I kept moving forward. Please, be well! Sending you love.
This was a very moving article and thanks for sharing your story with us. There were so many lessons for us all that it is hard to know where to begin. No doubt the bad times have influenced your outlook as it is now, and perhaps made your life more enriched for having made your way through those tough times.
Although people may have wanted to hang guilt around your neck for the unfortunate death of your friend that fateful night, and it would have been easy to buy into that argument, you managed to work through this and come out a healthier person for it.
Perhaps most telling was the last conversation you had with that friend, and how it pointed out that unless some changes took place in your life, it was not going to be a life that offered as much for you. Sometimes self-reflection can open the windows to reality and new paths to follow, which you obviously chose to follow.
What is apparent to me is that the passion that you have had and the lessons you have learned carry through to manifest themselves in your work. Somehow you capture that in the angles, the focus, the frame, and etc. We are all the better for this.
I am sorry that you had to go through all this early period of pain and heartache, but I am glad that you have found a way to live life more fully and not count on alcohol or other drugs. Life is a wonderful thing and you epitomize just how good it can be if we take charge and make things happen…Again, thanks for sharing, and best of luck, and please keep sharing your work with us all!
Dave,
I honestly cannot thank you enough for your kind words and encouragement. Everything you said brought such a smile to my face, I am so happy you felt exactly what I was trying to convey. How even though there may be troubling times, it is always worth it to keep going and fight. You’re very right, I could have easily allowed that guilt and pain to take control of me, and while I admit it is a daily struggle, I still refuse to let it keep me from living. Thank you again for reading my piece, and I can’t wait to share more. Sending you so much love!
Quite a thought-provoking story. Life is full of challenges, and everyone has his/her own story. It is good that you have decided to share yours with everyone, so we could all learn from it. The joyful part is it has made you a better person. You have re-discovered yourself. Sorry about the painful death of your close friend. It was her death that brought the needed change in you. Even in the midst of life challenges, we all need to figure out how we can overcome and still fulfill our individual dreams and goals.
Tolu,
Thank you so much for reading it! I was more than happy to share my life with all of you, because I hope that it might bring comfort and inspiration. You are very right, we all do need to figure out how to overcome our own challenges, and find what drives us and allows us to reach our goals. Thank you again. Sending you love!
What a heart touching story you just told us. I think have read many story of people that had this horrible past but the way you have chosen to turn things around is awesome. I love the fact that you were able to let your past get healed and focus more on the brighter future. Its sad that many people are still living a reckless life and I’m afraid they may die and die for nothing.
I hope people like that can still be able to read your blog post and learn from how you turn things around and how happy you are today.
Olorusunsola Tolu.
Tsquare,
I cannot thank you enough for reading my piece! It really means so much to me! Yes, there are still many out there who are struggling and fighting their own demons, and I hope more than anything that can find a way out of that hole. I also hope they know that they are not alone. Thank you again for your kind words and support! Be well!
Hi Molly,..
I’m short of words.. It’s really been long I read something this deep. I envy your courage and resilience. Believe me, many people wouldn’t survive what you survived. I always believe that life has more to offer so I live each day in the moment. There are thorns, pains and hurt in every sheet of life but I see them as the elements that makes life beautiful. You are a survivor, you are strong, keep being you!!
Sammynathaniels,
Wow, thank you so much. What you said really means the world to me. There are some times when I do forget my own strength, so your words are so lovely and encouraging. So beautifully put as well. Sending lots of love and happiness your way! Thank you again, be well!
There is often victory in sadness. Inspiration comes more from the troubles in our lives than the good times and seem to have such great impact on us. I loved your photos and wish I had a little more art in my soul.
I find it so sad that so many young people go through so tough an experience. When I was on skid row in Portland I was able to talk to a lot of older people who had given up on life and lived from one wine bottle to the next.
I am thankful that you found a way out.
Bruce,
Wow, thank you so much. Your soul itself is art, so no worries! Yes, I have seen the same thing in that area of Portland, and I’ll always hope for the best for others dealing with mental health issues as well as addiction problems. It is a very tough battle. I am very grateful that I found a way to get my life together as well. Thank you again, and be well!
This the most amazing peace I have ever read. So captivating is your story of survival and I can vividly relate it to mine. I have often time considered ending it all and just let go of this world but on further thought, I find it hard to do it. It is true that life can be cruel but as you rightly said ” you chose to stay” and fight back, not to be cowed by the ugly situation. It is so inspiring that you noted that there are still lots of beautiful thing in this world to stay alive for, hence, your passion for pics, poetry and adventure. Thank you for reminding me that I can still find some of those few things/passion that makes my heart glow, again.
Chidiking88,
Wow, thank you so much. Truly, from the bottom of my heart. I am so sorry to hear of your own struggle, but I am unbelievably grateful that you are still here. You are amazing and strong, and deserve to be here. I am so glad that you read my piece, and that it helped your heart. If you ever need someone to talk to, please reach out. My Instagram account is listed on here, and I’m always here if you’re having a rough day and just need someone to listen to you. Sending you so much love. Please, be well.
Hello Molly! Thrilled with each word, you really touched my heart, yours pictures touched me deeply! To photograph, to work miracles and to show us a magical world that we want to embrace more and more. I wish you a world of wonders and lots of light, success on yours journey and yours photos are fantastic. Congratulations dear girl!! I will certainly follow on Instagram.
framesandescapes,
Thank you so much for reading my piece! It means the world to me that I was able to touch your heart. That’s all a writer could ever want. Your kind words and wishes have truly made my day. Thank you for making me smile! I will follow you as well! Sending love your way!
What a truly beautiful story – I am so sorry for the losses you have experienced in your life, but your perseverance has led you down a path that has enabled you to share your art with the world. Your photographs are stunning, the essence of them really speaks to me. I applaud your ability to be so vulnerable.
Sara,
Thank you so much, truly. I am so happy that my photos speak to you, that really is so beautiful to me. Also, thank you for your kind words about letting myself be vulnerable, it really was a hard piece to write. So thank you for acknowledging that. You’re amazing. Be well, love!
Hi Molly, reading your story tried putting me in a sad mood because I definitely understand how you feel and the pains that come with depression and drugs. Well it’s not easy anywhere, I have a friend who left home at 15 and today he’s turned things around for himself. Drinking will never take away the pain, thank God you found the strength to react and today you are here to tell others they are not alone in this journey. That’s truly admirable!
Peter,
Thank you so much for reading my piece! It really does mean so much to me. Also, thank you for words of understanding and support. They are very comforting. Sending you love!
I must commend you for taking your time to share this article. This is so emotional, sorry for the loss and I must let you know this is a source of inspiration to me and I know it will be for many others who read this information.Thanks for sharing your experience with us. I will start following your site to get more inspiration from your experience.
Lok,
Wow, thank you so very much for your kind words. It really means a lot to me. I was scared but also more than happy to share my experiences, if it means helping to comfort or connect with others who may also be dealing with similar issues! I am grateful to your support, and will follow back!
Hi there
This is a really emotional post. I am really and so sorry for the loss you had suffered. I can confidently say it is only a few people that have the psychological strength you have. I am really glad this changed your life in a positive way. You even took such a beautiful picture and write something that matched it completely. Just keep up the strength you have been showing. This will take you to places.
Kehinde,
Thank you so so much for reading my words, and for the encouragement and support. You have no idea how much it means to me. Sometimes we all need to be reminded of the amount of strength we possess. You’re so kind. Sending you love!
Hello Molly, firstly I would like to commend you for this inspiring article. I also would like to congratulate you for pulling through and picking yourself up to become a better version of you. One of the ways I also feel we can fight and overcome all that we going through is by talking to the other person, sharing our pain. Your poems are deep, thanks for sharing
Seyi,
Aw, thank you so much! And thank you for reading my words. From the bottom of my heart, it really does mean a lot. I completely agree that one thing that can help, is to talk to others who have been through similar problems, so that we don’t feel so alone when being faced with these issues. If anyone who reads this is going through something hard, please feel free to reach out to me or try and find the support you might need. It’s out there. Thank you again, Seyi. You’re amazing.
Hi Molly,
Thank you so much for writing out such a wonderful and insightful article. This is highly motivational, the blog post has opened my mind to the fact that our passion matters a lot. Your success in life is connected to how you choose to focus on your goals. I have encountered series of challenges in life but i choose to stand firm in order to achieve my dream. This is a lovely piece. Thanks again for sharing.
Abioye,
Oh wow! Thank you so much for reading it! And, of course, thank you for your sweet response! I completely agree that how and what you choose to focus on in your life, will either make or break you. It’s so unbelievably wonderful that you were also able to come through your own challenges. That really is fantastic to hear, and I’m happy you are achieving your goals! Congrats! You’re lovely. Be well!
That is quite a great post from you, it causes a kind of inspiration and motivation. That was you story and it’s a great one considering how you were able to come out of it. But dear, unfortunately I too have seen sadness bring someone to gradual death, I have seen someone with mental illness because of sadness, and I think the best way is always to focus your mind on things that will interest you the most, talk to people you really love and let them know the state of your mind. Wishing you incredible success in your new life!
Barrywesley,
Thank you so much for reading my story, and for your kind and understanding words. I am very sorry to hear that you have dealt with a loss similar to my own… It’s a very difficult event to accept and sort through. My heart is with you. I agree, allowing yourself to find what drives you and what you feel passionate about, can change everything. Thank you again for your response, it means the world to me. Sending you love.
Hi Molly Gentzsch, what an emotional story firstly am sorry about the loss and i really appreciate you for knowing the right solution if not only God knows where you might be because anything can happen when an addiction takes control of you. This is a lesson for any one who is facing challenges, the person who has more struggle will have a glorious triumph, ever since i saw a man who had no hands and legs and still was happy. I have also developed my own something that is going to make me happy. My thing is music, while you chose pictures and poetry and I must say you are really great at it! Blessings always!
boluwagg,
Thank you so much for your kind response! It really means so much to me. I definitely get how important it is for us to try and see the world through the eyes of others, it can really change our perspective and perhaps make us more grateful in our own lives. I’m so happy that you found what makes you passionate, music is such a fantastic creative outlet.
I can’t thank you enough for reading my piece. You’re awesome. Be well!
There are instances where being a melancholic type of person is beneficial, just like you. With my mood often fluctuating, sometimes a person who is charismatic and sometimes a loner, I can relate to you and your experiences. And perhaps because of our shared personality, I can relate to your art works. But I’d like to give you some piece of advice because I want to you stay happy. Now that you are being recognized by the world for your immense talent, keep it up. Keep going no matter what. Keep the fire burning with your camera on hand and a pen on the other hand. You’ll go places with that.
Gomer,
Wow, thank you so much! Everything you just said means the world to me. Thank you for your encouragement, I promise that I’ll always keep writing and taking photos. Having these outlets are so important. Your kind words really made my day. Be well!
Ooh, this is so deep! I totally feel you and I am glad that you made a choice to live on and make a positive impact out of your experiences. Not many people will choose your path but I know that you have a mission to accomplish in this earth and you will make it and impact so many people.
Rutz,
Oh my gosh, thank you so much for reading my piece and for your words of kindness and support. More than anything I just want people to know that they aren’t alone in their struggles, and sometimes just knowing that can be comforting. Thank you again, you’re so amazing! Sending you love!
Hi Molly, life is not worthy of living until a purpose for living is found. Its rather sad you have to go through such tough times so early in life. Tough people last ,tough time does not. Its also relieving to realise you overcome the tough time and found a purpose in life in form of photography. Am happy you are in the right frame of mind to share your encouraging story. Thanks and God bless.
Olalekan,
Thank you so much for reading my story, and for your kind words! I’ve certainly accepted the struggles I’ve been through, and hope they have helped make me a better human being. Thanks again for your support! Be well!
This a sweet sad story molly. It is so sad to hear a young lady going through all you did go through. I am happy you found a new path fill with happiness. My advice to you is to keep it up and keep the sad moments where they belong; the past! My mom told me once that if I hold onto my past I will not have “hands” to take my future. A lot of young guys lost their lives in this type of situation but you are one of the few lucky ones. I congratulate you not many survived!
I look forward to seeing a better you and keep on seeing your wonderful pics and reading your beautiful poems.
jaykaynigltd,
Thank you so much for reading my piece, and for your encouragement and advice. I agree, the pain from the past should stay in the past, and we should all focus on what lies ahead. You’re amazing! Be well!
wow this is so touching i my self used to drink and most of the times i did it i always lost my temper in a way that i couldnt understand though after seeing the disadvantages of drinking i promised my self never to drink or smoke weed ever again now am making three years without boozing and it has helped me change health wise and wealthy wise too its never too late
thank you for the beautifull words
Noor,
Thank you so much for your kindness and support! Also, congratulations on being three years sober! That’s fantastic, and takes so much inner strength. I’m so glad some of my words could resonate with you. I am just beyond happy that you chose the path that was best for you. That’s amazing. Be well!
Love your strength!
Hi Molly. What a wonderful and emotional piece. I’m so sorry about your loss. I have a lot of friends getting drunk all night because of the hard times we are all going through, I hate the taste of alcohol tho but I’ve no choice. I guess you just saved my friends and I, I’m sending them this post later in the day. Thank you
Alex,
Wow, thank you so much for your kind words and support! They mean so much to me! I just think that the world we live in now can lend itself to creating a very addiction prone society. It’s always good to examine why that is, and what we can do for ourselves to address and help these problems. Thank you again. You’re amazing! Be well!
This is so emotional and yet so beautiful. I have lost 4 people in the past year and 2 were suicide. I myself deal with depression, and it can be such a struggle to get through each day. It brings me joy and encouragement that you can find the beauty in this world and not let life keep you down. Your photography is beautiful and your story towards the end made me smile. You are a strong woman and what we all go through makes us even stronger.
It’s difficult to talk about depression and emotions but we all go through different levels of it. Thank you for opening up for us that need to hear the hope you have and show everyone that needs to see that life is worth living
-Jordyn-
Jordyn,
Thank you so much for your kindness and support. I am sorry to hear of your own struggle, and your losses. I guess we must be warriors, huh? I completely agree, in the end we are all stronger for what we endure. I can’t thank you enough for reading my piece, it means the world to me. Sending you so much love.
Talk about an inspiring turn of events. This is an article that anyone facing similar circumstances should read, telling them there is hope out here in a world that tends to hide such hope. By the way, your writing is magnificent and those captions with each picture were breathtaking. You definitely have a talent in both photography and writing an I’m glad you chose to see it through and how far it will take you. Keep going!
Todd,
Oh wow, thank you so so much! Yes, I definitely want anyone who is having a difficult time to realize that things can get better, and most of the time if you focus on the things that you’re passionate about, that can give you an unbelievable amount of strength. Really, your kind words completely made my day. I can’t thank you enough for the encouragement. I’ll always keep going. Be well.
Molly I am so sorry to hear about your friend and your hardships and I am so glad that you are here today to share your experiences with the world. The world needs to hear what you have to say. Addiction is everywhere, I see it all around me and so many people are completely oblivious to how many people are struggling with it.
I don’t know what clean time you have, but I am now 10 years clean (from alcohol, cocaine, marijuana and metamphetamines) and I am so happy. I never thought that happiness was something I could ever achieve and here I am married with two kids and really truly happy with my life and myself.
Well done for taking a stand and for choosing to share your pain. It is through doing that that you start to heal and at the same time help others.
I wish you love, light and happiness.
Lynne,
Thank you so much for reading my piece, it really does mean the world to me. More importantly though, congratulations on being sober for 10 years!!! That is absolutely incredible, and takes so much strength. It makes me very happy to hear that you are also happy and doing well. That’s always inspiring for me. I’m sending you love, light and happiness back! Be well.
I think it is wonderful and brave of Molly to write such a story for your site Lara and I am grateful for her life and her beautiful pictures, and all I can say is God is with her and keeping her strong. She lost such a big piece of herself that day, but in doing so, the rest of her was directed to be set free, and out of her pain has come so much beauty. I wish Molly all the blessings life can bring, and I hope she finds a true internal happiness. – Babs
Babsie,
Thank you so much for all those lovely kind words! It means so much that you read my piece! I’m wishing you much love and happiness.
I connected with you on 2-1/2 points. I liked the photography, I have lived in Salem, OR, and I totally emphasize with your journey (except I’m a guy).
While I might think of other ways that one might use to rescue themselves, I am glad that you were able to do so through photography. Thank you for having the courage to share with others.
John,
That’s so funny that you also lived in Salem! I agree, there are many many other ways in order to help oneself get through their own issues, this was just what helped me. I think it’s really important for people to give themselves the opportunity to really find what drives them and what they are passionate about. It helps the day seem less daunting. Thank you so much for reading my piece! That means a lot to me. Be well.
Hi Molly. Thanks for my morning inspiration. I am so sorry to hear about your challenges, but I am inspired by your decision to truly live. Your sharing of the soulful nature of poetry and photos will inspire the world and you will help to make life better for others. It is so fulfilling to be able to inspire others. I understand your story and find value in it because I used to be caught up in a lot of stress until I decided to develop my music career and now my life has more meaning. Best wishes and thanks for sharing.
JJ,
Wow, no, thank YOU for reading it! That just makes my day. I love that you were able to deal with your stress through music. That is completely fantastic! I hope you keep inspiring others that way, and I wish you so much love and happiness.
Nice article there on how you live early days of your life. I am really grateful to God for giving you a second chance because many have gone through what you experienced in your early days of life and got to a point of Non return. I really learned a lot from this story and am so happy you chose pics, poetry and adventures instead of sadness.
Afolabi,
Thank you so much for reading my story, it really means the world to me. Yes, I’m happy that I have been able to find a way of channeling my experiences and my thoughts into something creative. Thank you again for your kind words and support. Be well!
You are a shining light in this world Molly! You have overcome so much adversity that many of us could not even imagine. The grief you would feel from so many close losses, particularly your best friend, would be so much more intense than anything many of us could imagine. I truly honour you for making the change in your life at that pivotal moment. Things could have turned out differently, and they didn’t.
Do something incredible with your life now, you have so much to offer people by sharing your incredibly rich story. Always, always believe that life has more to give you. It’s shaken you up, now it’s time for you to acknowledge the lessons and put it to use. You are incredible. I shed tears reading your beautiful words, and I wish you could feel the love that I felt for you as I shared your story with you for those brief moments.
Love and Blessings,
Josie x
Josie,
Wow, I cannot thank you enough for reading my story and for your lovely response. I was more than happy to share my experiences and my story, I think I just want people to find what they love and follow that path. Thank you again, really. You made my day. Be well!
Hi Molly, your post is so very touching and sad. I am so sorry about your friend, how frequently happiness eludes us and becomes buried in our pain. The poetry is beautiful and so from the heart. I think it’s great that instead of drowning in your sorrows, you chose to take another path; To turn your sorrow into something beautiful, via pictures and poetic words, thereby reaching people who have had similar experiences and giving them hope.
Keep going, you’re an enormous help to many people!
Sue
Sue,
Thank you so much for your kind words and support! It really does mean the world to me. I agree, it’s extremely helpful and therapeutic to take my sadness and create something beautiful from it. You’re so wonderful, sending you love!
Pictures tell a story. It’s lovely how the pictures speak to you.I believe you are right about we all having choices. You have changed paths and are sharing your story with others through words and pictures. You speak of addition and hard times. But you chose to change that. Thank you, its a great personal story.
207Connie,
Thank you so much for reading my story! It really means a lot to me! Be well!
Molly,
Wow, you’re an amazingly gifted young lady…
As I read your post, I could see how this could be the script for your own film!
You know, God works in mysterious ways and believe it or not, He has always been there for you.
In this life we have troubles and tribulations, but it’s how we deal with them that gives us the courage and perseverance that leads to victory over whatever comes our way.
Stay strong, choose life, remember you are the “head and not the tail.”
I enjoyed reading your writing and now I want to read more! 🙂
Christie,
Aw your response truly made my day! Thank you so much for reading my piece and for your lovely words of encouragement and support! It makes me incredibly happy that you enjoyed my words. I post some of my writing on my Instagram! I agree, it’s how we deal with our obstacles that helps determine our ultimate outcome. Again, thank you again for your response!
Thsnks for sharing a piece of you with us. I understand what it feels like to be abused as a teen severally by aunties and close relatives, i also have had my hands held tight on addiction… It has really been a rough journey for me but each time i reflect, i find solace in my undieing passion to succeed. I am grateful for where i am and where i will be in few years time.
Thanks for sharing this article.
ODavid,
Thank you so much for your support, truly. I am sorry to hear about your own experiences in dealing with abuse. I am very grateful that you were able to get through it and keep going. That is amazing, and I admire your strength. Be well!
Not everyone has the strength you have actually to take up the sadness and learn from it. It’s a brave thing you did to move on in a positive life. I will try and share this post with few of my friends to see how they will react over it though it’s just an article, i don’t mind, am not a poet but I have one.
Destiny,
Wow, thank you so much for such a lovely and encouraging response! And thank you for sharing! How wonderful that you have a poet! That put a smile on my face. You’re so sweet, I’m sending so much love your way!
OMG! This is a masterpiece. To me poetry is a vacuum filler and it helps me to get a clear head whenever I read poetry. You did not just offer poetry but you gave vivid story encoder(photographs) alongside poetry. What better way to communicate the highest level of feeling. I envy your expressions through photography because all the images are stories on their own but you simplified them all by offering worthily short and imaginative expressions that makes me glued to reading and rereading the post. This is simply beautiful expression. You suffered a lot Molly and your story brought more than one tear to my eye, but life is smiling at you now. Wish you all the very best!
Wow, thank you so much for such a lovely and supportive comment! That just truly made my day, thank you so much for reading my piece and my poetry. It means the absolute world to me. Thank you for putting this big smile on my face! Be well!
Molly, your pictues are so beautiful and poetry enchanting and appropriate for each picture – it almost gave me the experience of being there – I was glued to it – just don’t feel like leaving it.
You are not only a good poet & a photographer, but you are an excellent story teller. The experiences & sufferings you went through and how you used turned a very dark and depressing event to turn your life around brought tears to my eyes.
I am guessing most of the pictures are from your native town of Salem, Portland. They brought my old memories – when I was in my early 20s, I picked up a Voightlander camera from my brother as a cover to stay out of the pictures (I was and still to this day I am camera shy ) and developed photography as a hobby – and it sure gave me some memorable days and helped avoid many embarrassing moments.
I am so happy for you now and wish you the best in your endeavors.
Thank you so much! Your kind words and support mean so much to me, I honestly can’t thank you enough for reading my piece and my poetry as well. I’m just very grateful. Yes, most of my photos are from Oregon and the Pacific Northwest, although I have others from other adventures. I am also very camera shy as well, so I definitely can relate. Find me on Instagram! I would really love to see your photos as well!! Again, thank you for being so kind and wonderful. You made my night. Be well!