Photo taken by contributor Kendra Kantor, a 22-year-old woman from Chicago, Illinois. Kendra is a mother, writer and photographer who has suffered from mental health issues for most of her life. When she was 13, she started to recognize depression in herself and reached out for support. She started therapy and medication, and was eventually diagnosed with Panic Disorder and Major Depressive Disorder. She loved photography as a young teen and after a break, which included dropping out of art school and becoming a mother, she is learning to love the camera again and use it as a wellness tool. Kendra has become a Wellness Mentor and Guide for creative women looking to embrace their self discovery and improve their mental health.

About this photo: “After I took this photograph I went home and wrote the following poem:

I am a new bud 

awaiting the sun,

nourishment,

fragile.

Holding on so tight,

waiting for my turn to bloom.

I am the trunk of

a 100 year old tree. 

Ringed with stories & pain.

Strong & unbending

I am the whisper of

wind

on your face.

Fleeting & ephemeral.

I am cooling & welcome.

I am the water in the river,

here & then gone.” 

Find more from Kendra at her website and blog.

_____

**Visit Broken Light’s main gallery here. Currently accepting submissions.

*Facebook & Twitter @BrokenLighCo & @DanielleHark. Follow for e-mail notifications.