Proud ViM,'Top Notes'

It not about us, its about them, their words and their talent, so without any rambling, in no discernible order PViM's 'Top Notes' this week:

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C. Rommial Butler

Garbage in the Gutter.

A raw and emotional journey, this eclectic collection explores the gritty reality of the human experience where the whimsical and the cynical collide. Echoing the unapologetic spirit of Bukowski, C., Rommial Butler offers up a visceral experience that is both genuine in its truth and thought provoking in its depth. A challenging read, not just for the sake of entertainment, but for the chance to engage with the profound and the profane, to find solidarity in solitude, and perhaps, to glimpse another truth beyond the confines of conventional wisdom.

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Krishan Mubashar

Taking A Stand For The People Of Ghana

A highly personal story, presenting a powerful call to action against the injustices embedded within legislative attempts that seek to marginalise individuals based on their identity. Eloquent in its criticism, this piece shines an articulate light on the injustice of the criminalisation of truth - a grave offense to the core principles of human dignity and freedom.

Through a rich reflection on colonial exploitation and the contemporary struggle for LGBTQIA+ rights, this work places love at the centre. Krishan Mubashar brings hope for equality and the freedom to exist with authenticity. Inspirational, motivational and insightful. A real must read, even if I wish we never needed to!

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Heather Hubler

but i see rays of light

A raw, hard-hitting piece that captures the spirit of rebellion in response to manipulation and deceit. Employing vivid imagery, the poem flags up the dismal nature of insincere apologies and hollow words. Beginning with a dark and suffocating scene it captures perfectly the stifling hands of betrayal.

Not without hope the bullet holes of torment are opened with collective awareness, allowing light to fall on once hidden wounds and enabling the voice of the maligned to share their experience. Truth prevailing with a bang that reveals the light. An empowering must read!

Kerry Kehoe

Results

Raw and honest, this personal narrative skillfully navigates a highly emotional journey. It offers readers a window into the vulnerability and strength needed to navigate through life’s challenges. The importance of humour and the value of a support system is central to the message. An honest and gentle but powerful reminder of the human capacity to endure, adapt, and find peace even in the midst of turmoil. An inspiring offering - perfect fpr anyone needing inspiration and hope.

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Sian N. Clutton

Devotion

A profoundly moving offering from Sian. Delving intolife’s struggle, it is a heartwarming read that explores the yearning for belonging in the shadows of self-doubt and isolation. A masterfully crafted piece that will leave your heart a little warmer and your hope a little brighter. A true testament to the power of perseverance and the need for self-acceptance in a world, all too often, dragging us down. A beautiful affirmation of the joy that can grow despite, and perhaps because of adversity. An inspiring story that offers comfort and wisdom!

Some words to ponder:

James Baldwin:

Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.

A far more eloquent insight into humanity, identity, and the complexities of social and personal struggles than I could muster. Baldwin seems to sum up the pieces in this weeks edition. Profoundly human and resilient in the face of adversoty in the chaos of this thing we call life.

ℭ𝔢𝔩𝔦𝔞 𝔘𝔫𝔡𝔢𝔯𝔩𝔞𝔫𝔡

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