Poetry-This is Domestic Violence

Her bruises cried tears she wouldn’t.

And black eyes were hidden away.

Those who love her plead and beg, to walk and not stay.

She can’t hear our words, over the shout of his hateful chatter.

Blaming her, then apologizing for behavior he thinks doesn’t matter.

The broken doors, and painful ribs.

And the hidden money that no longer exists.

This is domestic violence, and lives torn apart.

Broken minds before broken hearts.

And she ran, he gave chase.

Scaring the children in the car as they raced.

Fear overcame, she turned around.

Returned to the place, where he’d throw her down.

Threats were daily. Pain severe.

Hopelessness devours, a single thought unclear.

This is domestic violence.

Hate dressed up as love.

Cowards pretend strength, as they overpower, push, and shove.

Afraid of their own shadow, they use intimidation to get their way.

And drop tears and lies to get them to stay.

Run and buy a gift, forgiveness can’t be bought.

We won’t believe your show, sorry, you’ve been caught.

And finally she’s done.

The words and threats and false intents,

Hold no power anymore.

As the beautiful courageous walk through the police department door.

“I need to report an assault. I need to be safe.”

Those are words of courage and internal strength.

And maybe it’s scary and hard to do.

But this is the moment you fight back for you.

Because you and your children matter.

You don’t deserve abuse.

He doesn’t deserve freedom, after what he’s done to you.

This is domestic violence.

Abuse in multiple ways.

And hope for those afraid, fear leaving and stay.

You deserve better, you are worthy to be loved.

You are valuable and precious, and above

The punches, the kicks, the taunting tricks.

He is powerless, and we pray you soon will see.

That living in abuse no longer has to be.

For all those living in this hell.

Safety Alert: Computer use can be monitored and is impossible to completely clear. If you are afraid your internet usage might be monitored, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1−800−799−7233 or TTY 1−800−787−3224.