Creative Arts Corner:
Restoration by Charlie B.
Mama I couldn’t sleep last night
My eyes were closed
My mind was bright
Just thinking
Wondering how cold it is in the dark
Feeling the cold scars and lonely marks
Such a cold thing
But then again, I smiled
Mama, you know that day will come again
Where there is all light
So bright, it will make the night full of fright
Souls will be restored
Minds can adore
The thought of thinking something so true
Full of smiles and laughs
Generating new directions and new paths
I will see the narrow road
I will be able to chill and relax
Breathing silently with the wind
And I adore
The gates of heaven as they stay open
Waiting for my soul.
Artist Bio: Charlie B. was born in Augusta GA, March 7, 1977. He was raised by a single parent in Louisville, GA, a former slave town and the first permanent capital of Georgia. Educated at historic Louisville Academy, Louisville High School, and Jefferson County High School, Charlie was the only African American male Honor Graduate of his class (1996). He attended GA Southern University where he earned a BBA in Operations Management and continued his education at Augusta State University where he earned a MA in Special Education. His professional achievements include: Special Ed Teacher and Football/Basketball Coach plus 14 years in the Army and Army Reserves. He was injured in Afghanistan by IED and suffered multiple injuries including PTSD and TBI. Charlie was discharged; he is a disabled Vet. He recently completed his first memoir, Scars, Wars, and Perseverance.
“I write for therapy. My themes include perseverance, pains, struggles, everyday life observations, optimism, love, appreciation for nature and religion.”
(Charlie Brady 2/6/19)
Creative Arts Therapist: Ms. Alper has a Master’s in Education, and Counseling, is certified through the Amherst writers and Artist Foundation and completed a 2 year program in California for expressive arts.
Several of our warriors have been participating in creative arts sessions online, once a week with writing instructor, Anne Alper. Sessions focus on guided writing exercises with theme prompts to develop writing skills and structured writing practice. |
