Getting Up Again
A while ago our neighbour cut trails
into the forest for his off-road vehicle slicing some trees down to the ground. While out wandering, I came upon one of those
trees with new saplings coming up from the old root. It reminded me of how brain disorders such as schizophrenia and schizo-affective
disorder create devastation in the lives of young people in their prime - just as they are beginning their first years
of university, or starting their first job, or beginning a family. The effects of the illness upon a young life are similar
to the effect of the chain saw upon that tree.
This vulnerable sapling in its forest surrounding is symbolic of the
importance of family, medical and community support, and especially the courage to "Get Up Again" exhibited by people during
the recovery process.
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