Forgotten Flowers
How many young women have to die?
How many mothers have to cry?
While those in charge turn a blind eye
At the blood and the violence,
the lives lost and the hate,
how many more hearts
will stop beating as we wait?
There is a garden full of nameless,
forgotten flowers
that have been hastily plucked and pushed aside,
leaving not a trace of their warmth, their beauty, their stolen grace.
Over this garden the sun rises and falls
And in the still moonlight the forgotten flowers whisper their calls;
"Don't forget us", "Remember me"," Please"
With Love and Remembrance, Always
LaLa
June 30, 2009
via redwoodcoastcreativearts.typepad.com
The Forgotten Flowers dresses are symbols of lost souls or spirits. The project's purpose is to bring awareness to the missing, exploited, abused women and girls. When I created the first piece and the accompanying poem it was specifically for the tragedies happening in Juarez, Mexico.
Over the years it has grown to be more global and to also include human trafficking and domestic violence.
This project is very near and dear to my heart. I create from my own experiences. Unfortunately, silent pain and trauma is something that I know well.
From certain angles the dresses look sweet and pretty but, on closer inspection you'll see that the lace is torn, soiled, and maybe even blood stained. A lot of hurt and tears are hidden under satin and tulle. Despite the trauma, there is always hope. That's where the rainbows, new green growth, and bluebirds of happiness come into play. I will continue this series on forever.
Today I am reposting this series in honor and celebration for the young women who were released from their long imprisonment in Cleveland, Michelle Knight, Georgina Lynn De Jesus, Amanda Berry and her daughter.
Welcome home Amanda! You are a hero! You are an inspiration! You are a beacon of light and hope! Love hugs and blessing to you, you brave strong woman!
Also, big ups and love to Charles Ramsey, our unassuming hero of the day! Blessings to you Mr. Ramsey!
I ♥ Charles Ramsey
