I stand in the kitchen full of unbridled rage as he yells across the living room and into my ears
I stand so silently as he mocks me with no hesitation
Mocks me for telling my family about the abuse he inflicted on me
I say to myself, “I tried to leave everyday.”
I should’ve tried harder until I got out but I am stuck with my abuser until I finally can make my own money
But I am standing here silently watching my own decisions being flattened by his hand
I wanted to make him feel as small as I did for countless years
But instead I walked away
Standing silently until the rage turns into self-respect and dignity
Standing silently until I can stand up loudly without fear of being shot down, mentally berated and treated less than
How can I survive? I ask myself
You survived far, far worse, I then reply
I cannot be old and still dealing with this, I say
I must find a way to stand.
About the Creator
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Outstanding
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Heartfelt and relatable
The story invoked strong personal emotions
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Comments (4)
It's not so simple, not so cut and dry as to why victims are unable to leave their abusers. Each story is unique yet shares the same threads of toxicity. I hope all that experience this find ways to not only leave but remain safe. Big hugs, my friend. This was painful yet a much needed reminder of a difficult perspective.
What a courageous poem!
Stand for you 💯 ❤️
Honey, this struck a cord. Lovely work.