Once vulnerable with no one to turn to
Not understanding why I was ashamed
As time passed becoming apathetic
While feeling I was somehow to blame
On the outside I had two loving parents
In reality my protector was never home
Constantly seeking any means of escape
Only reading let my spirit roam
The worst abuse was not physical
And the mental harassment never ended
I think it was her coping mechanism
I still hate how she pretended
Somewhere I learned to stand up
Protecting became my responsibility
I knew I’d have to be different
Fighting for what I believe is being me
I don’t know why this path chose me
Some abuse victims take a different approach
I’m thankful for God’s grace and direction
When I see abuse I will act without reproach
I’ve never needed anyone’s sympathy
I write this so that someone might intervene
For those children who don’t see a way out
To a lost child how much you could mean
JBentley-11Mar2026