Lotus in Action

By Madhuram S.

I am an Indian American, a child of two worlds, Roots deep in traditions, stories, and swirls, Culture and heritage, woven into my soul, A rich tapestry of life, an intricate and vibrant whole.

But mental health was something not talked about, Stigma and shame left us feeling left out, Silent suffering, internalized pain, Until the breaking point, it was hard to sustain.

How do we talk to family and friends, About the turmoil within, the battle that never ends, Like a mango tree, standing tall and strong, We can find the courage to speak, to own our song.

Mental health, a journey, we all must take, Like a rickshaw, navigating through streets that shake, But with support, love, and care, we can thrive, Our mental health, a garden, where our emotions come alive.

Like the monsoon rains that quench the earth, We can find relief, in sharing our worth, Our stories, like a beautiful Rangoli design, Reflecting our struggles, but also the divine.

The lotus flower, a symbol of strength and growth, Rising from the muddy waters, it's beauty both, A reminder that from pain, can come new life, That our struggles, can help us rise.

So, let's talk about mental health, break down the walls, Like a banyan tree, offering shade to all, We can create a culture of acceptance and care, For those who need it most, for those who dare.

Dare to own their struggles, and find a path, Like a butterfly, breaking free from its chrysalis bath, Embracing their mental health, with love and compassion, A beautiful transformation, like a lotus in action.

Tôi Xin L

i by Christine T.

This piece carries a lot of symbolism. It is up to the viewer to interpret the meaning of different aspects: from the position of the fish to the title. The story I gave this piece was my experience with mental health as an Asian American with traditional immigrant parents; however, you may create your own context.