avatarMichael Cappelli

Summary

The web content is a poignant poem and accompanying article reflecting on the trauma and aftermath of the Uvalde, Texas school shooting, emphasizing the ongoing mental health crisis and lack of resources for survivors and their families.

Abstract

The poem titled "21" is a heart-wrenching piece that captures the emotional turmoil experienced by survivors of the Uvalde school shooting. It paints a vivid picture of the psychological impact of gun violence through the eyes of someone who lived through the event. The accompanying text marks the one-year anniversary of the tragedy, highlighting the inaction of law enforcement during the incident and the subsequent struggle with PTSD among the children who survived. It also points out the financial hardships faced by parents and the community's desperate need for mental health support, which is currently in short supply. The article concludes with a call to action, inviting readers to contribute to the Uvalde Go Fund Me to support the affected families.

Opinions

  • The author conveys a deep sense of abandonment and frustration towards the lack of immediate help during the shooting.
  • There is a clear criticism of the law enforcement response, labeling it a "catastrophic failure."
  • The poem expresses the overwhelming nature of PTSD symptoms experienced by the surviving children.
  • The article underscores the inadequacy of mental health resources and the urgency for more support and professionals in the field.
  • The call to donate to the Uvalde Go Fund Me reflects the author's belief in community support and the need for collective action to aid the victims and their families.

21

Poetry — Gun Violence

Image by Author

I pound my head on my pillow Side to side Like a pendulum clock To stop the screaming.

My constant whimper Blunts the rat-a-tat-tat of gunshots And the high-pitched whine of bullets Bouncing off the floors and walls.

Rojelio is my camouflage As I pretend to be dead Layla stares as the light leaves her eyes Frozen silence wails my nightmares.

I can’t wash the blood from my body I can’t scrub my skin off I drown in a sea of red agony Every moment of every day.

I waited for you, but you didn’t come You didn’t see me You didn’t hear me Maybe I could have stopped him if I wasn’t such a coward.

Where were you then? Where are you now?

May 24, 2023, is one year after the massacre of 19 children and two teachers at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas. A catastrophic failure by 376 law enforcement officers descending upon the scene to do nothing. The surviving children are overwhelmed with PTSD symptoms. Parents are beset by financial crises because of time missed from work to help their children. Thousands of residents have sought mental health support. There is a desperate shortage of mental health professionals and resources to provide needed therapy. To support the families of Uvalde, please visit Uvalde Go Fund Me.

More from Michael

Poetry
The Lark
Gun Violence
School Shootings
Mass Shootings
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