Last week, the Berkeley and Eleanor Mann Residential Treatment Center (Mann RTC) students held their annual 'Hope not Dope' assembly. The youth shared their poems, songwriting, and artwork, which capture their recovery process and their understanding of the negative consequences of substance abuse.
Here are some of their powerful, moving pieces:
Awareness
Drugs aren't just
Alcohol, pills, and weed
This knowledge is not just a want
But a need...
So close to the edge
No one can hear my scream
Yelling for help
It's like I'm stuck in a dream...
Words of an Addict
"I cheat, lie, and steal"
"Because the power of addiction is real"
"Its effects I can't conceal"
"I can't help how I feel"
"It's so hard to deal"
"I wonder if I'll ever heal..."
Recovery
If you're looking for recovery
I'll lead the way
Work the steps and
You'll live to see another day...
Just for today
Focus on one thing at a time
Don't rush, getting help
Won't cost you a dime.
- Julia V.