Heartbreak to Healing: Shona Likely’s journey through poetry

After the tragic loss of her son to suicide, Shona Likely turned to poetry for healing. Her anthology, “I feel I am a burden,” shares her journey of grief and recovery. The book aims to raise awareness about suicide and inspire others to speak out about mental health struggles.

Townsville author Shona Likely. Picture: Shae Beplate.

Shona Likely never envisioned herself as a published author.

A devoted mother of six, she had always been passionate about writing but kept her musings to herself.

Everything changed in 2022 when her world was shattered by the tragic loss of her eldest son, Tom, to suicide.

In her profound grief, Shona turned to poetry as a means of coping, ultimately crafting a poignant anthology titled “I feel I am a burden,” published recently.

“I started by writing letters to Tom describing my feelings of grief, rather than bottling my feelings up. Over time, I made them into poems,” Shona shares.

“I always loved writing and every so often wrote down my thoughts. I wrote the poems as an outlet for my grief. Although at times it caused much anguish, it was ultimately cathartic. It helped me process Tom’s death.”

The book, a slender volume of 48 pages, delves deep into Shona’s emotional journey.

Its high-gloss laminated cover belies the raw, heartfelt content within, where each poem is a testament to a mother’s unfathomable pain and her path toward healing.

Despite the personal nature of her writings, Shona initially had no intention of publishing them.

“Initially, I was wary of sharing my innermost thoughts,” Shona admits.

“I had no intention of publishing. Then a friend committed suicide. I realised it affected so many people. I began thinking my poems would get people more aware.

“I shared them with another friend who encouraged me to share them with others. I felt sharing my story would inspire anyone also grieving a loved one. I hope that anyone reading my poems can benefit from them as much as I have.”

Suicide is a topic often shrouded in silence and stigma, yet its impact is devastating and far-reaching.

Shona Likely at her North Ward home. Picture: Shae Beplate.

Shona’s decision to publish her anthology is not just a personal catharsis but also a call to raise awareness about suicide and its repercussions.

“Sadly, suicide rates have increased dramatically in the last few years. It is also affecting a much younger age group,” she says.

“This year, an eleven-year-old boy committed suicide in WA.”

In the preface of her book, Shona candidly addresses the difficulties of discussing death and grief.

“People find it hard to talk about death, maybe to shield themselves or maybe to shield others,” she says.

“Talking about these tricky issues can hopefully help more people feel comfortable sharing their feelings.”

Shona’s connection to Townsville, where she has lived for 33 years, is evident in her writing.

Her love for the community and the support she has received from her friends here has been a source of strength.

“I love Townsville, and I have wonderful, amazing friends here,” she says.

“We have lived in Townsville 33 years. Tom was my eldest of six children.”

Her son Tom’s memory lives on in the town that has been their home.

As part of her mission to foster open discussions about mental health and suicide, Shona hopes to promote her book during RUOK Week at local schools.

“I feel I am a burden” is out now. Picture: Shae Beplate.

By sharing her story, she aims to inspire others to speak out about their own struggles and losses, creating a ripple effect of support and understanding.

“We must talk more about mental illness,” Shona says.

“Be aware of others. Always be kind and seek help if needed. I have included help sites at the back of the book, many available 24/7. Talking to a trained person can make all the difference.”

Through her anthology, Shona not only chronicles her grief but also extends a hand to others walking a similar path.

“I hope the book will help others suffering after a loved one dies,” she says.

“The turmoil of the first few months. Also, hopefully, people will be more open to talking about self-harm.”

One of the most evocative pieces in the book, titled “Memories,” encapsulates the depth of Shona’s loss and the lingering pain of Tom’s absence:

Memories

I wish you hadn’t left us so soon.

I thought you would stay much longer.

Your story was put onto a shelf before it should have been.

Those missing chapters I can now only imagine.

Your tale was cut short but by no means less important.

Every now and then I open your book of memories to see if thinking of you still hurts as much.

It does, every single time.

“I feel I am a burden” is a beacon of hope and resilience, proving that even in the darkest times, there can be light and connection through shared experiences.

Shona Likely’s heartfelt anthology is more than a collection of poems; it is a testament to the healing power of writing and the importance of community in navigating the complexities of grief.

“I feel I am a burden” is available for purchase at au.blurb.com/b/12008552-i-feel-i-am-a-burden

>> If you or someone you know needs help, please reach out to Lifeline at 13 11 14 or the Suicide Call Back Service at 1300 659 467. Remember, you are not alone, and there is always someone ready to listen and offer support.

Originally published as Heartbreak to Healing: Shona Likely’s journey through poetry