The padlock

Please prevent child abuse

 

 

 

 

 

One took is daughter by the hand and led her,

Guided her and kindly helped her walk the dark paths of life

He shed light and wisdom on her, calming her fears

 

Another took his daughter by the hand

And led her into those dark places

He created confusion, resentment and anger

 

One laid his hands upon the head of his daughter

He gave her spiritual blessings, guidance and comfort

 

Another laid his hands upon his daughter’s body

He gave her self esteem issues, distrust, and hatred

 

One placed a tiny locket around the neck of his baby girl

Inside it were pictures of himself and her mother

A reminder of who she is, and what to stand for

 

Another placed a padlock on the heart of his baby girl

Chains around her neck that would pull at her,

weigh her down

A reminder that he had control of her mind

 

One offered wise council, gentle respect

As she advanced into adulthood

He watched his baby blossom as a woman

And as a mother and wife

In times of trial, he offered his hand to hold

 

His heart forever wrapped in her

 

Another pointed out faults, reminded her of her lack

As she advanced into adulthood

She learned distrust of men,

Made choices that caused her pain

He refused to see that he continually contributed to her pain

In her times of trial he reminded her that she was wrong

worthless

 

Her heart scarred by his forever torment

 

One daughter embraces her father

The other… walks away

Author's Note

No longer a victim of child abuse... proud to say I am a survivor of it

Reviews

[Coyote Poetry]

Thank you for this powerful poem. Hard to be a parent. We need to allow our children to run free and we feel fear for their safety. No excuse to abuse a child. Last line is the real truth. A good parent had a open door and kind welcome for their children in good or bad times. A outstanding poem.
Coyote

[NoneOfYourBusiness akaK..]

our seeds all have such potential~ in the care and keeping lies the future of our development~ this is beyond powerful~ this is the humanE being delivering conscience to the world~
heartbreaking and beautiful~ m'Lady

[.]

that is an amazing piece..so cleverly showing the difference parenting can make upon a life..the responsibilty we take on having children and the power we have to build or destroy a life..maybe every parent should read this..poignant message delivered with grace..

[Patient Poet (Yos)]

I love you for that