Sonder: Youth Mental Health Stories of Struggle & Strength | Page 46

Finding my Roots Essay and art by Sedona Lynn Hippie child, born wild. I came into this world with a compassionate, spiritual mother whom I chose before birth. I grew up spending my days free spirited, going on countless adventures with my family. From the mountains to the oceans, we traveled in our Volkswagen bus, Maryjane, who had a bright beautiful sun painted on her. Back in those days, everything was perfectly aligned for me to blossom into the flower child I am today. I was a smart child who began reading before I was three years old. My younger sister and I were best friends who spent every day playing in nature. We were young, wise, observant, creative, and crazy. I had all of the love and support I could ever wish for. However, along my journey I encountered obstacles that would threaten my true purpose and cause me to lose touch with who I really am. I fell victim to the oppression that was present and was influenced by malicious forces. 44  Depression