For Fernando Mercado

This Poem was written for Fernando Mercado, who ended his own life on October 8, 2008, leaving friends, family and an extended network of many who cared to wonder why. My prayer is that those that knew him find some peace and this poem helps you with acceptance of this event......Find opportunities to celebrate his life, and less to mourn his death.

The Best Thing You Can
Do For Me Right Now
a poem for Fernando Mercado

The pain is just too much for me to bear
I don't think anyone anymore even really cares
About my plight that has taken flight
Far above where I can no longer contain it
I can't maintain my sanity
There is a man in me that I don't recognize anymore
I feel so trapped in silence
In a room that contains no doors
At least God manifest a window
So I can at least see that there is a world outside myself
Tear down these walls, oh Lord
I can't afford to pay attention to my sorrows
Happiness seems as uncertain as tomorrow
I feel as though I am followed by storms
And the sun is there to blind me not keep me warm
I often pray for frigid temperatures and snow
Because at least everyone else will feel
The coldness that I seem to know
Everything I touch is a failing endeavor
I can hear everyone laughing and taking pleasure
In seeing me fall flat on my face
So if there is a trace of hope inside of me
I want it to provide for me
A beacon so that I can make it through to the shore
I want to be sure that my pain does not transfer
Into a cancer that love cannot even cure
My message is for you to endure
For you to carry on the burdens of this life
Because it is worth living
It is worth giving of yourself
And being in the company of friends
Don't allow your life to end
Without loving with your best effort
Comfort those that cry for me
And try to be strong
For you have a long way to go
Show me that you care
By being there for each other
That is the best thing you can do for me right now

Derrick S. Slack

10/9/2008