Second Skin

In memory of Adrienne Rich who died on Tuesday, March 27th, 2012, I always think of her when I hear this song:

Second Skin lyrics

I've thought about it a million times
It takes all my strength just to keep it calm
I hove to tell myself, just let it breathe
holding it inside will only help to do me in
Each time I close my eyes I see another chain
it's one I can't forget, something I can not break out of
I need a second skin, something to hold me up
can't seem to get out of this hole
I've dug myself right back in
Just to wake up tells me I must be brave
It hits me like a drug shot into my vein
It's not as delightful of a pain
immobilizing me
almost makes me think I'm dead
I need a second skin
something to hold me tough
Can't do it on my own
sometimes I need just a little more help
I want that chance to give every drop that's left in me
I need a second skin
something I can not break out of
I tell myself, just let it breathe
It's a calmness I'm always searching for
But the dirt it gets so heavy
it falls above my head
seeping from under my feet
it just keeps on getting deeper
I need a second skin
something to hold me tough
Can't do it on my own
sometimes I need just a little more help
I've got that chance to give every drop that's left in me
I need a second skin
something I cannot break free of
Though no one ever said it'd be easy
Still one's left to deny the choice that comes
between your willingness to survive
Though you're knowing what you stand up against
a world set to deceive
You need a special strength
I've got that second skin
I've got that chance to give
I've got the only way that I know how to live with it
I need a second skin
something to hold me tough
I need a second skin
something I cannot break out of

"aahh, matsushima

aahh, matsushima

aahh, matsushima"

-basho

Le bonheur de vivre

the joy of life, a painting by henri matisse is a print i found at an antique store at the beginning of this year. it was printed by the barnes foundation, one of the sequestered paintings in their collection they had never allowed to be reproduced in color until more recently. the print was an inspiration to me regarding renewal of health this year, as well as for the pursuit of my minor degree in women's studies. i hope to continue with women's studies for my master's as well, and see what the future holds for an opportunity to earn a phd at a university in wales in conjunction with my professor who is head of the department for women's studies at uco.