Posted by blamethebanjo on Tuesday, August 12, 2008
I walk along this hidden path where troubled souls once trod, A wooded walk where tall trees stand their sound the voice of God Sad memories below my feet that bygone steps had made as sunlight filters through the wood and and dances in the shade I almost hear their distant voice dicuss how they sought cure, They lived here for they had no choice their sentence to endure Beside me laughs a running stream, the same one they once saw the green moss covers fallen timber, a distant blue jay calls, I pray my friends that you found peace in this world or beyond , no longer bound behind cold walls to sing your mournful song I pray the path that you walk now is bright beyond compare and that we never shall forget the days when you walked here.
Here in Traverse City stands an old state hospital that housed the insane from 1885 to1986. It stands like a castle today. A solemn reminder of the thousands of souls who once walked it's floors. The inspiration for my writing this is a photograph by Heidi Johnson a local author and photographer who has published many pictures of the old hospital one of which is The Hidden Path.
13 comments on “The Hidden Path”
twhite54 Says:
Tuesday, August 12, 2008 @9:15:13 AM
man, that's deep...it takes something special to take the time to think about what was, especially regarding something that few would have taken the time to think about what is, if you get my meaning...
campbelldb Says:
Tuesday, August 12, 2008 @9:47:31 AM
Enjoyed reading your poetic and powerful words,
Best wishes,
Dan
rinemb Says:
Tuesday, August 12, 2008 @11:55:44 AM
I can't hardly imagine the inhumanity of life in one of those places. Even though, I am sure there were numerous good souls who worked and volunteered in such fascilities. Our regional facility is/was in Winfield, Ks (3rd Hill as it was known locally). now all of the insane meet in the same town in September every year, at the Walnut Valley BG Festival. sorry, bad joke. Brad
Graypeddler Says:
Tuesday, August 12, 2008 @12:04:33 PM
Mental illness is still a taboo subject sadly to many people today. My mother was insitutionalized for a short while, when I just turned 22. She has fully recovered now. As a family member that expereienced first hand what mental illness does to a family I can tell you it opens your eyes to things you never thought about. Anyone of us could find ourselves in need of mental help at any given time. Could be a stroke, hearattack, or an accident or a bad expereience. You words are insightful.
BvilleDon Says:
Tuesday, August 12, 2008 @12:49:34 PM
Darrell, your words were so sincere and poetic.It sounds like you've got all the material for a great song there, and it would have to be written by someone with your insight and sensitivity. Mental illness has affected so many families. It bothers me that our world just barely tolerates those, who no fault of their own, have develpoed symptoms that I think are often environmental in cause. I also feel teerible for the many with regular living problems and sought help and ended up in such a place by a well meaning "professional".
God bless you. Inhumanity flourishes in our midst and the world need people like you that have the power to transform attitudes with a sensitive eye, compassionate heart, and a very gifted expressiveness.
fisher Says:
Tuesday, August 12, 2008 @1:53:24 PM
Thanks Darrel, i could picture it perfect
blamethebanjo Says:
Tuesday, August 12, 2008 @3:12:22 PM
I am humbled by the kind words my friends. The fact that I feel free to bare my soul to you is testament of the regard I hold you in.
Thank you so much.
Kester71 Says:
Saturday, August 16, 2008 @5:03:54 PM
This gave me some comfort. I went to a gathering of banjo pickers yesterday. Well, I was supposed to but the guy holding the show gave me false directions. I got nowhere but came home feling like a rag doll. This world is cruel because of the people living in it.
blamethebanjo Says:
Saturday, August 16, 2008 @5:19:47 PM
They often let us down, Kester. If you were given bad directions by accident that is one thing, but regardless someone elses failure to do the right thing doesn't reflect on you. You were eager to be part of a group of like minded musicians who likely don't share the views and character of the direction giver mentioned. God bless you.
Kester71 Says:
Sunday, August 17, 2008 @3:44:04 AM
I am so glad you said that. The guy responsible fot that sent me mail. He said it was my own fault because I am not really interested in learning anyway! I always saddens me that the person who is kicked down is told they deserve it.
blamethebanjo Says:
Sunday, August 17, 2008 @7:16:44 AM
Thankfully that type is in the minority. You will find the right group. Don't be discouraged. I have been in the same situation. Keep playing and practicing and when the beginners start coming to you for advice, you will know exactly how to treat them. The opposit of the directions man. Good luck to you!
Kester71 Says:
Sunday, August 17, 2008 @7:57:21 AM
Ha ha ha, I do keep meeting the same minority. Thankfully I know many wonderful people.
Jane C Says:
Monday, August 18, 2008 @1:19:20 AM
Kester, you should have called if you were lost, we were waiting for you honey.
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