Family Spirit

Abuse by a family member

A grief

Which knows

No boundary

Or limit.

Of a pain

Unquenchable by tears

Over the years.

Where betrayal

Runs thicker

In the blood

Than the water.

Nothing is safe

From becoming

A weapon of shame

And harm.

As human flesh

Darkens to

Black blue and purple.

And the screams

Echo

Forever.

Author's Note

While growing up, I was physically and psychologically abused, by my younger brother, who escaped, unpunished for his actions, by my parents. I have since, broken off, all relationship with my family, as part of my healing process.

Reviews

[SHEEMA HUQ]

This is so moving and tragic, I am pleased that you do write about this subject matter, only because such family taboos are often dismissed and thus important to publish for public recognition. I really do commend you for courage and abilities to write so articulately.

[therisa]

Thank you, Sheema.

[Aarea]

This poem is amazing. Great work, I am sorry for your abuse. I loved the lines, "Where betrayal
Runs thicker, In the blood, Than the water. These were powerful lines that made you think a lot. Your writing is very impressive.

[therisa]

Thank you, Aarea. Only wish that I didn't have to experience this, first hand, twice, from different members of my family.

[Aarea]

I am sorry for your pain.