The Cage Options

[Silke Lance]

The cage/My Anorexia


There I was, wandering my road of life. It had it's ups and downs and sharp turns but the scenery was generally pleasant and I was content.

Then the scenery started to change. It changed gradually, so I didn't notice it at first. When I did notice, although it was unpleasant, I thought it would get better down the road.

The scenery became constantly dark and frightening and I realised I had taken a wrong turn and was on the wrong road. I had gone too far to turn back , was lost and could only keep stumbling around on this dark frightening road.

To protect myself, I built a cage and locked myself inside. From the security of the cage I felt safe and protected but the cage itself was pretty uncomfortable to be in and I desperately wanted to get out.

From inside the cage I realised I was at an intersection of many roads. I couldn't see far down any of the roads from my cage so they all looked very scary to travel down by myself.

Several times I picked a road and started to go down but became frightened and ran back to the safety and security of my cage. From the cage I can see and hear other people on their roads. They usually seem to be with other people, smiling and constantly moving forwards.

They call out encouragement to me as they pass but then move on. I am envious of people on their roads. I get visitors to talk to me in my cage but they stay outside. We talk about ways in which I may get out and which road to take. I wish I didn't have to walk it alone.

This cage is getting more and more uncomfortable and I dream that one day I may get out, maybe try a few roads until I find the one on which I am happiest and maybe have someone join me.

From inside the cage, this is my dream.

[Hey Hey]

Take someone's hand, dear Silke. It will likely be Steven's but many would offer their's to you, to help. Then walk down any road without fear.