My Name Is Bobby is a poem that I wrote many years ago to help me express how I felt a child must feel in the midst of child abuse. My name is Bobby is my attempt to show abuse from a child’s point of view. I have received so many emails about this poem and many requests to use this poem in plays and other ways. I am honored to be asked to use the poem and so that readers are never waiting for a response I am posting permission below for anyone to use the poem, please read below for more details.
I encourage you to Share your poem here!
The poem is dedicated to little ones living with adult fears, written/published November 11, 2006
My name is Bobby
by Rebecca J. Burns
My name is Bobby, although you never hear me speak, I’ve lots to say.
Even though you never see me smile, deep inside I’m still your child.
Although you don’t know my name, I breathe in and out just the same.
This game you play, I don’t know the rules,
I go to school and I try to be, the child you dream …
One foot forward and two steps back, you did it wrong now take that slap.
Get off the floor you silly fool;Go cry your tears into Winnie the Pooh.
You have no choice, you are my child,
No one cares if you live or die.
Don’t say a word,
Don’t tell a soul.
You must be so good,
They’ll think you’re made of gold.
Did you play this with your dad?
You were his only son.
Why are you so mad?
Why do you make me run?
I lie beneath my bed; the pillow no longer drowns the dread.
What made you so mad?
You only hit me once yet I feel so sad.
I’m in my room upon my knees, hoping that you will see, the hurting child inside of me.
I’m praying that lightening will strike; will I die before the morning light?
I don’t want to play this game, I don’t know the rules, I don’t want to play your stupid game no more.
Take away the board, smash it on the floor, Daddy won’t you let me know the way, to play this game you play, I’ll learn the rules someday,
I promise if you let me run away…
(Whispered)
I won’t say a word,
I won’t tell a soul,
I will be so good;
you’ll think I’m made of gold.
(Whispered lower)
I won’t say a word,
I won’t tell a soul,
I will be so good;
you’ll think I’m made of gold.
PERMISSION TO USE POEM: This poem and photo are all over the net now, please make sure to give kuddos to the author – Rebecca J. Burns and the photographer D. Sharon Pruitt. You may ONLY use the photo when posting the poem with it. You DO NOT have permission to use only the photo.
You DO NOT have to write and ask my permission to use the poem, you have it here. Again, you have permission to use this poem as is for plays, newsletters, blogs and such as long as you give credit to me, the author. Also, try and leave a comment here letting me know where you are using it.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
It is amazing what others have done with this one poem. If you have used this in a creative way please share it in a comment and link if possible, would love to share it with readers.
Below the poem was set to a very touching video to bring awareness.
I was touched when a reader sent me the youtube video below where they based the content off of the poem.
Dear PDX Dad,
Yes, of course, I listed with the poem that it may be used as long as you place my name and if possible this website to help support others. This has been used all over the world to create awareness of the pain children endure. Wishing you all the best.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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Dear PDX Dad,
I am so sorry for what you and your children are going through. I am amazed when people think it is only a man that molests or is abusive. Continue to fight for them.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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I would really like to use your poem if you do not mind, I am working on a short film about child abuse. I would like to include your poem if you are OK with that.
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I am deeply touched by your poem, and some of your posts where you talk about your pains from childhood.
I am an adult survivor of child abuse and am going though it again after marrying an abusive woman that fit my family pictures. Although I have escaped her evil clutches, she has fooled the family court system into believing that I am the abuse and has taken my kids. They are now helpless in her clutches and are enduring the same abuse I went though. I have tried everything to save them, I can not stand to see this happen again to my sweet helpless children. I know you pain… stay strong as your words have a lasting effect.
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Hi Child Advocate,
good and bad, I wrote it from a child’s point of view so others can see/feel the pain. Thank you for all you do.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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AM A CHILD ADVOCATE SO ABUSING A CHILD IS LIKE HELL , THAT POEM MAKES ME CRY
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Svck me off Father, And I shall utter not a word. For I am thy own lover, your own slave, no one above me or below shall ever take thee from my grasp.
And yet the handsome serving boy replied, ” I shall never want you in Death, but only in Life. For Death is indeed a cruel lover and I should not want to anger Him any further”.
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Hey i know this is realy late but i just wanted to say i loved all your poems and stories and r.i.p. to people who didnt make xxxxxxx
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Dear Mackenzie,
Yes, use it however you like, permission is given in the actual post.
Thanks for using it.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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Reblogged this on My Blog and commented:
One of the most heart wrenching sites I have visited please visit for more information on the effects of abuse, and to bring awareness . thank you Rebekka
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Hi, my name is Mackenzie Canganelli from Forest High School. I would love to use your poem for a video that I’m going to enter into a contest. Do I have your permission to use your poem? Credit for the poem will be given to you. Please email me at mcanganelli@gmail.com.
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Dear Rebecka,
Love how you spell your name. That was one of the most heartbreaking posts I have read in regards to this poem. I am glad the poem touched you and sad that it did too. You wrote, why believe in something that may not be true? To believe. Belief is a hope of something. If you don’t believe in things, trusting other people you just exist in a sad little bubble.
I know you have had a hard life already and you sound very young. You will find those that you can trust and some you can’t. Stick close to the ones you can trust. The first person you have to trust is you. It may take time to believe in your God but you will. I hated him when I was younger for making me live how I lived, if he was there why did he sit and watch me suffer? I never understood this one. But as I grew older I felt closer and closer to him. God has been there on my darkest days, giving me hope and this crazy belief that my life would get better and it has.
You should write, you seem like it would help you and help others. You have so much inside of you that you don’t even know about yet. Listen to that voice inside you that tells you that you are worth something, ignore the rest.
Keep in touch, I wish you all the best in life.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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I am sooo angry all the time… and i don’t want to be!!!! I wish i could’ve been the child my mom wanted. If i was I wouldn’t be going through endless nights of crying and thinking i could actually feel my heart being ripped apart. My whole biological family hates me. And I’m pretty positive that my foster family hates me now too. I have been messed up from my childhood experiences for forever… so messed up that i screw everything up in my life. I can’t stay with a guy for a long time. I guess i just feel like i can’t trust men. Especially since my brother raped me. My own brother! yeahh.. well anyways i can’t stay with a foster family for a long time either. But same thing there… trust issues. If my own parents would hit me and starve me… why would anyone else do different? I never thought a family would just take me in out of the goodness of their hearts. I never knew people could be so caring. I don’t want to let anyone in my heart because I’m scared! I’m scared that they’ll just tear it into a bunch of little pieces and throw it in the ocean so I’ll never be able to find it and mend it back together. I also can’t trust God. I’ve always seeked to have a close relationship with God. But I couldn’t find it. Nobody has given me anything to believe in. Why should I believe in something that might not even be true. I’ve just recently realized that there’s been a lot of people in my life trying to help me. I’ve just been so stupid and I never took advantage of their kindness. But i really enjoyed reading your poem. It was very moving. And full of intelligence.(:
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So sad how parents can be so cruel, i just dont understand.
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Hello Bethanie,
Wow, that is such a touching poem. I remember you writing before. You are an amazing soul, such a young old soul you are. I applaud you for all that you have been doing. You have no idea the impact that you will have on the world. People like you are what changes the world and helps end abuse.
Love you lots. Keep in touch.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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So familiar…. 😦
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Dear Nicole,
So sorry for such a delay in responding, the post gives permission for use if you credit me and site. It was written for causes such as yours. Do what you need with it, I appreciate the touch base. Let me know how things go and thank you for all that you are doing.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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OMG, that’s so sad.. Like why would you lay down and have a kid you couldn’t take care of? Like for real, people need to realize what they got before it’s gone.
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Wow what an alien tiger
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I first posted my poem on this after reading the wonderful poem at the top in 2010. After I posted it on here, I showed one of my carers and it’s now being used in universities for students who study psychology!! I’m 16 now and I run a support session at my local health centre for young people like me who have been abused or witnessed abuse.
I posted the poem a few days after I was raped in durham. I suppose it gave me strength. I found the strength to speak up after this but unfortunatley the person who did it to me got way with it 😥
In case you missed it before here is the poem: This is my poem about child abuse:
As I noticed my self becoming old and grey
I knew it was time to visit the girl of yesterday
she had been kept hidden
in a place where other had been forbidden
she knew I had to leave her long ago
so one of us could find the strength to grow
I promised her someday I would return
for she was my main concern
no one could understand how her and I connect
for I was the one present tduring the crime and neglect
As I oipened the doors of yesterday
I hear the soung of children happily at play
but I noticed her sitting all alone and sad
Until our eyes met and she became glad
we reunited by hugging and kissing one another
like a beloved daughter and mother
I comforted her and dried away her tears
that had been so painful for so mant years
as I looked in her small eyes of grey
I told her that the monster had gone away
she looked up yo me and said “I love you.”
I replied “I Love you too.”
Somebody who cares finally set her free
THAT LITTLE GIRL I USED TO BE
From Bethanie xx
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Child Abuse is something that needs to be taken seriously.
Anyone who ever thinks of hurting the child physically and verbally should
face harsher criminal charges. It is wicked and awful to ever ruin a child’s life.
There is never any good excuse to beat them.
Children are precious gifts from God, and need to be loved and cherished.
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Hi Tony,
How can I find you on facebook?
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Hello Tony,
It is a pleasure to let you you print what you need, that is why I wrote this poem, it is used all over. God bless you and your wife for all that you are doing. I will check out your facebook and encourage others here to do so as well. Keep in touch and let me know if I can every assist you.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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🙂
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thankyou for posting these blogs my wife is a survivor and we both run a facebook group about child abuse i wont your permision to use the poems on this group please
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Dear Jacqueline,
I am so sorry to hear all that you went through. You must find a way to move beyond your past for each day that you allow it back into your life it is taking the life from today. Talking to others and dealing with it will help you to let it go. It is not helping you in anyway to let it eat at you. Counseling at this stage is a must, read books about moving on after abuse, seek counsel. You need to decide what you think about and what you will allow into your life. Don’t you owe it to yourself to let go of the past and live today and enjoy it?
Keep in touch, thank you for having the courage to post.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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Hello Suzette,
Thanks for posting, not all children are blessed with great parents. It is up to everyone to keep them safe.
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Dear Nicole
Great work for you of course you can use it. It states that the poem can be used for the this reason when giving credit. I wish you all the best with your work. You are inspiring. Keep in touch.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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This was a moving poem and I am doing a Child Abuse Awareness Program at my school and was wondering if I could please use this as a skit for one of my actor to say in his line and would like to give you credit. We are trying to get this on the news and if it is aired we are giving all the refferences and their poems. If you could get back with me asap it would be great thank you 🙂
Sincerly,
Nicole Mercer
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It breaks my heart to see children having to deal with so much physical and emotional pain and not being afforded a normal and happy childhood my prayers go out to all of you.
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my name is Jacqueline Beyior now I am Maried is Socque
I was abust by my mother and father I nohow it feels I was punch and pull by the hair I was rape by my father I still think about my pass Now I am married I am 61 year old By Mrs. Jacqueline Socque.
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Dear Silent Turtle,
Thank you for having the courage to share, your words will help so many, just as afraid to speak. I agree, writing can save you, that is why I started such a long time ago. I am so sorry for all that you are going through with your siblings too. Wish that I had the power to make the world peaceful for you. You will be grown soon and able to make your own choices. Is there anyone in the family or adult that can stand up for yoU? I am so heartbroken but happy to hear from you. Keep writing, it will save you.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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Dear Anonymous,
I am so deeply sorry, I can’t image why a mother would do that either. I would see how horrible my husband as to me and fear that going towards my son. Do you have someone to talk with, an adult, someone at school? I am not sure how old you are but that is not how you deserve to live. I lived in a bad home growing up and at 15 moved out on my own. It was the best thing for me, it was the first time I had stopped trying to kill myself. I know you will get desperate at times so hope that you will write here, there are tons of supportive sites here that will help. Be honest to your mother, write her a letter, tell her how you feel. Especially when she is not drunk. Stop hiding it, why should you? When needed, be far away from here when she drinks, lock yourself away, put your headset on, escape the house if possible. Soon you will be able to leave and have the life you dreamed of.
Keep in touch, you will be in my thoughts.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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Dear Janna,
Thanks for sharing such bad things, you are so young and it hurts me to hear all that you deal with. Children should be having fun and feeling safe. I am glad that you are doing better now. Don’t take what your mom says to heart, she is hurting and out of control and needs to blame someone, she has no one to blame but herself. You sound wise beyond your years and will go far in life. I encourage you to journal and help get the hurt out of your hear and soul. By letting go of the pain you have now, you will be able to really enjoy the rest of your life. There is never a comparison to what you went through to another, we all suffer just as much for this is our life we are talking about. Never diminish what you feel or go through. The fact that you lived in fear and are now able to share is what is important.
I hope that you will keep touch and let us know how you are doing. I wish you and your family all the best that life has to offer.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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Oh and by the way I’m 14 too if i didn’t already say that. But you’re comment touched my heart, and I’m so sorry that this is latest response ever. I just saw this website and read your comment.
~Janna
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Sam~
I don’t know if you will ever get notified of this comment, but I just wanted to let you know that I was reading what you wrote and starting crying. My situation wasn’t near as bad as yours. You are so strong and an amazing person. Everyone wishes that they could be like you. Your brother was f**king crazy to say that stuff to you. Anyways, I’m so sorry after everything that you have been through, and I know who it feels to live in a broken home like that. My mom was a alcoholic and she would make us cry. My sister tried cutting herself multiple times. I live with my dad now and things are so much better. My mom is in jail at the moment because of her drunk driving. She almost go my older sister killed. Till this day she tells me stuff like “we back stabbed her” or “we don’t love her” Again, it doesn’t sound near as bad as the stuff that you went through. I hope you read this and respond!
~Janna
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This made me cry 😥
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Awww this is a very sad poem it made me cry i can’t believe he would do this to a child .
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sam, I went through hell to but i never told anyone someone told CPS and got me the hell outta there but i feel your pain i am still hurt but i go to a cousnlor and talk to her about everythin we laugh and play games honey i am here for you if you need to talk email me cheyanne.s@verizon.net i check it everyday i will be here for you
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I feel so sorry for this little boy, and all of the other children who get abused! It isn’t fair on the children! These type of men deserve to be SHOT!
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Dear Sam,
Wow, I am so sorry to take so long to respond, especially to your post. It broke my heart to read your comment. It is sad how many children live the way that you do. This is about them, it is not due to what you have done. You are just stuck in it. I do understand what you mean about not wanting to reach out as it will make things worse for you. I am glad to hear that you are doing a journal, that is what helped me so much and turned me into a writer. You are stronger than many I have talked with before. Do all that you can do to stay strong, you will be able to break free of this cycle. Keep reaching out to those that support and help you to be what you want to be. Keep reading the poetry and looking for ways to feed your soul. Set goals of what you want your life to be. Your family doesn’t decide what your future will be, you do. You do need one person to talk to so find someone you trust. We can’t live with the type of dysfunction and survive it day to day. Thank you for reaching out, keep in touch. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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i guess i am an abuse victim-if thats what you call being beaten and verbally thrashed by your drunk mother. my parents are divorced and i live with my alcoholic mother and older brother.
my mom isn’t always drunk, but when she is, i cant believe what she does. she beats me and says stuff to me that i cant shake off.
in a way, i do love my mom and wouldn’t want to live anywhere else, but i wish she wouldn’t drink; why doesn’t she understand that it hurts. emotionally and physically.
i cant hide the emotional and physical scars anymore.
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I was just searching child abuse stories and stumbled upon this website. After reading all the posts from people and learning that I am not alone, it’s inspired me to try and post my story on here. Unlike some people, I have yet to find the courage to speak up for myself and stop all the things that happen in my family. I am sixteen years old and have been dealing with this abuse since elementary. I have three younger siblings in which two of them deal with the abuse also. As the eldest, I feel like its my job to protect them and I do try very hard but sometimes, even that is not enough. Still afraid to speak out, I write and write and write some more when I have no way of verbally explaining how I feel. Surprisingly, it helps me so much. Everyone needs an outlet to release all the pent up anger, pain, and frustration. Slowly, I am learning to trust my friends P, A, J, N, and B to keep my secrets along with giving me a shoulder to cry on. Now that everything’s been said, I’m ready to share my story. Hopefully, one day, I’ll be able to speak out and leave this terrible place…
Her silent Story:
Just a breath away.
Filled with longing and despair.
No sense of happiness to be found anywhere.
Her name was Mia and she was filled with so much hate
And it started when she was only eight.
Still just a baby, and yet dealing with issues that held so much weight.
This is what happened when her life was no longer great,
Her life fell apart day by day
Her dad was often absent, no longer a person who could take her away.
Her mom was an addict who soon began to no longer care and then eventually stopped being there.
With no choice, she was stuck with her grandmother.
A bitter old woman who only hurt her.
Locked away in the house
Isolated from others
her only companion was a teddy bear that dried her tears where ever they fell.
Who was soft and cuddly and gave her lots of care, and didn’t leave her to go anywhere.
She talked to it in the dark while she lay there hugging it for all she’s worth.
Wishing and trying
Hoping to hold onto that last remaining spark.
Quiet and afraid
Until her grandma unlocks the door, bringing pain and torture she’ll have to endure.
Someday maybe it’ll end but until then…
Fading shadows upon her skin
Crying she knows she’ll never win.
HOw did she ever end up in this place?
She wishes she could leave without a trace.
Each night she remembers she’s not alone as she cries to her teddy bear “this is not a home”
There’s never a peaceful night, so she draws up her body and curls up tight, hoping to keep out of sight.
Locking this nightmare away…
Smiling on the outside while silent tears stream down from within.
Most think,
SHe will not be broken even as she feels her life slipping away while the strings at her seams begin to fray.
She’ll hold on and be a soldier
But from time to time she needs a shoulder.
You would never even guess all the things that are surpressed.
You’ll never believe all the things that go unseen.
She’s afraid of telling a soul for speaking always takes a bad toll.
But if she tells you….
Don’t break her trust
Don’t go telling others
Because all she needs is for someone to confide in.
Right now she falls asleep with the teddy bear in her arm but maybe, just maybe she’ll find someone who loves her so much for who she is, and will no longer need the comfort of a stuffed animal to not feel alone.
Dont push for her to speak,
For now she is not ready.
She writes passages to break the silence
And to share her story so others know they’re not alone… </3
ThankYou for giving me a place to share my story and spread the awareness of child abuse.
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Hi,
Your poem touched me. I am 14 now, but I remember that from when I was little (about 6 or 7), my parents abused me (they still do it now). I lived with my parents, brother and sister. My sister was born years before I was and is actually a foster sister and is not my real blood sister though I see her as one. When I was little, she was already in uni so she was usually never around. My dad used to hit me with a leather skipping rope and leather belts, he told me it was “discipline” for me wrongs and said that the Bible said, “spare the rod and spoil the child.” I didn’t always do wrong, believe me, but whenever my brother didn’t want to get in trouble, he lied and with each lie he told, I got hit mercilessly. I used to go to school with the scariest of scars down my back, legs and hands. Luckily, I always wore something that covered them up. My mother always yelled at me, called me names, I thought it was all part of being a mother and I prayed I never became like her in future. For years afterwards, my dad was nice to me, he became the nice, fun-parent. I seemed to be closer to him and so, I could easily get him to pay for things for me, lend me money or come for events I wanted him to. My brother, on the other hand found it harder. The thing is, my brother and I have never gotten along, the day my brother first saw me, after I was born, he tried to poke at my eyes (he was stopped and taken away from me), when I came home and could move around, then could walk, I was a clumsy, child. My brother used to hit me then, not only when I made mistakes, ate his crayons (I was a baby). messed up his things, but also because he seemed to find amusement in my pain.
My mum abused me, physically, emotionally and mentally. She hit me and would tell me that if I cry, if she hears the slightest sniff or whimper she’ll make me sorry. If I ended up sniffing no matter how hard I tried not to, she whipped me again and again. She turned me into a maid in the house, I had to clear up after people, wash up after them even when I could barely reach the tap for the sink. I also started cooking to feed the whole family. I joined a taekwondo class at some point, when I reached a certain belt, my mum took my past belts from where they hung in my room and whipped me with them, she then hit me. She called me, “a stupid child,” “an idiot” and told me things like she gave birth to such a stupid child. My brother also called me names like bi***, idiot, he even told me “screw you” and hit me. I knew I had to tell somebody, it was getting so hard for me, I cried everyday. I told my dad and he laughed in my face, he didn’t believe me, then he told my mum everything I told him. When my dad went to work the next day, my mum said, “you told on my to your father? How dare you?” and she hit me.
I’m 14 now and I can honestly tell you my life has been scary. The abuse got worse. Previously, I remember my dad hitting me so hard I had scars starting from my face down (I didn’t go to school for a while), he also damaged the tissues on my thumb and opened up a hot water tap on max. and made me keep my hand under it, each time I jerked my hand away, he yelled at me and threatened me and made my keep my hand under it till it got red and became a bit darker. I couldn’t forget the pain. I still loved my father, told everyone he was the only on that was nice to me apart from my sister, well, compared to everyone else, he seemed to hit me less making him seem the nice one. At 12 and 13, I became suicidal. I tried stabbing myself severally, but I always ended up dropping the knife (I also always went for the longest and sharpest knife in the house). I wanted to die, I wanted to end the misery, all the pain. I ended up talking myself out of being suicidal entirely, I told myself, “I’d rather suffer here for years than suffer now and for all eternity.” My brother happened to find out I was suicidal and rubbed it in my face. He made me feel stupid, some time, he hit me and told me “hey, no one’ll miss you so just go kill yourself,” he’ll see me, grin and say, “suicidal girl.”
Many more things happened, when I stopped talking entirely, my parents threatened me. The locked me in a dark room and threatened me, threatened to hit me, insulted me, threatened to do worse, I was scared. I have cried more times than I remember. I have cried myself to sleep severally….the pain didn’t stop.
I decided I need to talk to someone else. I went to my school counsellor and told her what was going on. She was shocked. She asked me if I had any family member I was close to that didn’t hurt me, I told her my sister. She said I should talk to my sister and tell her what was going on. My sister was pregnant (she had gotten married) so I didn’t want to burden her considering she had had miscarriages before. The guidance counsellor wanted to talk to me again about what was going on, but then I remembered a time I told her about my brother because she knew him, I confided in her and she told me mum. I got home and got hit. So, I started avoiding her. I got a diary where I wrote my inner most feelings, where I cried into until the words became blurry. I started hating on the world and developing anger management issues (which I had when I was younger, got through it then had it again).
I got hit several times more, then there came the mind games. I never wanted to play those games or whatever they were to my parents. They made my feel stupid, delusional, insane by things they said. My made me question my state of mind. My dad never believed me. I hadn’t ever told a lie since I was about 9 or 10, but he still never believed me. My dad pulled out extracts of my diary and read it out to be saying I wrote them out as a letter to him. He told people and made me look like the bad person. He told them how I didn’t want to be part of this family, how no one loved me, how I hated them… nothing ever changed, it all just grew worse. I was stopped from talking to my only true friends who I met online when I was little (they were the only right things). I was grounded and kept in dark rooms for telling the truth.
I haven’t told like an abuse help-line or anything about what I’m going through, what I’ve been going through. I know that if I do, my parents would still get a hold of me and make my life a living hell. I know that my extended family won’t treat me like they always have. I know many negative things would happen beside the one positive thing of the pain stopping. I remember each time I cried, my parents smiled, each time I bled, they watched TV… I still get scared a lot of times. I really do. I don’t want to have to move from home to home and be surrounded by strangers.
I haven’t spoken up for myself, I’m scared to, but in a way, I am speaking up for myself and all the kids who just like me are being abused. I have read poems out on stage by various authors, poems that talk about abuse and what a child goes through. People have cried just hearing the poems, it seems to affect everyone, but my parents.
I don’t plan on speaking up directly to a help-line or anything. I know it sounds stupid because I want to the pain I go through to stop, but if I can keep my distance, find more reasons to be out of the house, or with more people, in the next 2 years, I’ll be out of my parents’ house and maybe finally, the pain’ll stop.
~Sam
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Dear Alice,
Of all the emails and posts I read that had to be one of the most heart wrenching. We all think it won’t hit close to home. We do what we know to do. Thank you so much for sharing all of this with us. By sharing you will help others to speak out. The poem was heartbreaking and brutually honest and feeling. I will post in in an upcoming works as it will make others things of what we do and don’t do. You are strong, you did what you knew. Thanks for sharing this part of you.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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I am lucky enough to not be abused by my parents although my dad was all his childhood years…it was passed down through his family from father to son for generations but my dad was finally able to break it. I do have a story about abuse, however…I wrote the little girl a poem in memior….(it’s right after the story.)
I was babysitting for a family with a young girl about 6. She was an only child. I went over that night but saw nothing strange with her parents or even her. I did, however, see bruises on her arms and legs but thought nothing of it-we all get bruises sometimes, right? Young children especially. Anyways, a couple of weeks later a story aired on the news about a young girl tortured to death by her father. I heard the name and location and realized that was the girl I had babysat recently. I felt so stupid and guilty…I didn’t even think to tell anyone about the bruises or anything…I should’ve told someone but it didn’t cross my mind that something was amiss. If only I would’ve told someone, I may have saved that little girl’s life….I feel so horrible. Anyways, the story below is about the little girl from her point of view….If only this could justify her death…
You came home that night,
I ran to my room in fright,
Hiding under my bed,
praying you’ll just go to sleep instead
You open the door to my room,
And see me hiding in the gloom.
“Get out from there!” You scream,
I pray to God this is a dream
“Not again,” I think,
as my hope begins to shrink,
in your hands you hold a belt,
You lift up my shirt and reveal the welts
Your face was twisted in a scowl,
as you listened to me howl
You pull me up off the floor,
Then kick me down once more
I try to hide the pain,
But you say that I’m to blame;
“You’ll never be my perfect daughter!”
You yell, holding my head underwater
I sputter and choke,
There’s 3 more ribs you broke,
You grab me and shove me into a wall,
I just want to end this all
“Please god, not again” I whisper in worry,
My vision has now become hazy and blurry.
My daddy has left for a moment or two,
but comes back with a bat and says, “Come here you!”
I try to stand up but my legs just won’t work,
“I hope that this doesn’t make daddy bezerk”
He screams to me, “I told you, stand up you dumb child!”
The drugs are making him evil and wild
He walks over to me,
And says angrily,
“Fine, I’ll come over to you instead,”
And raises the bat to strike down on my head.
“I love you daddy”,
“Even through this cloud of tears I see,”
“If you loved me,” He managed to say,
“You’d find ways to make me more money.”
I shiver with cold,
His angry words are getting old,
I cough up some blood,
He throws the bat aside and says, “I’m done”
“Thank you, God,” I whisper silently,
“Thank you for not letting him murder me.”
My triumph in life is little and short,
as I wake up in the morning to his, “See you tonight sport.”
My mommy knows,
The abuse shows,
But she acts like she can’t see
“Mommy, why won’t you save me?”
I just want to die,
To end this whole lie,
To make the pain go away.
“Oh please god, don’t make me stay!”
The night repeats itself,
Again mommy offers no help,
Then my Daddy came back in,
He had his bat and he had raised his chin.
He said to me, “No longer will you not be perfect,”
“As soon as I’m done with you I will be sure of it.”
This time as he raised his bat to my head,
I pleaded with God to just make me dead.
He hit me, then left me there lying on the floor,
No longer was I his daughter anymore
The remains of me lay there like an ugly shell,
Useless and lifeless; unable to speak the story I have to tell.
To everyone out there who suffered like me,
Remember to always, always tell your story.
No longer can Parents hide in the shadow,
It’s their turn to live in our sorrow!
Speak up, tell the world what you’ve been through,
Then you’ll get adopted into a family that loves you
Don’t be like me, a lifeless shell
Go out and show others you have a story to tell.
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awh these are very sad and i thought i had my life hard but i dont at all compared to these they made me cry they are so heart touching x
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awwwwww this sooo sooo upseting, like us we got a dad and a mum who love us and we still take advantag of it however no matter what happens just stay strong and we are here for you no matter what happenes dont to anything bad just be you 🙂 xxxxxx
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hey guys its just so sad how people
can judge others but you need to remeber that
your not alone nomatter wat happens
god is watching you even at times when you think
the world is against god will never be like them he loves
you and that wont change
ONLY GOD CAN JUDGE YOU
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Hello Candice,
Your words broke my heart. I am so sorry, this is not what you should be dealing with, you are so young. I am sincerely sorry for your loss, my heart is with you. It is not your fault your friend died, I pray that you really know that. Do you have anyone to talk to about this? You can’t keep that pain inside.
Write again.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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tears seen being shed by a friend will her abuse ever end?she tells me about the pain she feels will her emotional scars ever heal?she tells me things never said before will living to her always be a chore?theres so many question that i had until the day she was murdered by her dad that day she stayed over late at my place she said it was her father she couldnt face its all my fault i told her to go home she was so scared she felt alone i should not have told her to leave i thought she was over reacting why didnt i believe?but now shes gone an i feel so sad i didnt think her dad was that bad so everyday to her gravestone i go why cant i stop the tears that flow?why didnt i stop it then an there?why didnt i even care?she was so kind but still felt pain she told me that she felt insane……….but she wasnt her father was but its over she’ll always be dead no matter what anyone does. p.s.this is a true story i cry everyday an wonder why i wasnt there…….R.I.P alexis.
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Dear Kent,
First, thank you for having the courage to write here. Second, you have done nothing wrong, no one should treat you this way, especially no one that you are calling mom. I wanted to provide you with the Child Abuse Hot line number, it is 1-800-422-4453 then push 1 to talk to a hot line counselor. They will talk to you in confidence and do everything that they can to help you.
If you want to tell me your full name, your address I will report this and someone will come remove you from that home. I promise I won’t post it all here. Send me an email at the-laststraw.com or click on the abuse website link here, they are the ones that can really assist you http://www.childhelp.org/pages/help-for-kids
I pray that this is a joke as I often get bogus emails, but on the other hand, if it is not we all want to help you. We are mothers that love our children and never want any child to suffer as you have. Write back so that we know you are okay.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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I am Kent 9 years old. My Dad left my Mom because she got pregnant by another man. She now has 2 more kids after me, from 2 different men. My Dad brought me with him to live with my stepmom.My Dad has no job. My stepmom sends me to school, feed me, clothe me, buys all my needs. She also disciplines me.
I can’t play. I can’t watch tv. I need to have high grades in school. I need to have perfect skin, perfect teeth and perfect manners. I am scolded by my teacher at school for being talkative. I love talking to my friends about things I want to have. I forget things. Important things. I lose pencils. I am worthless. My Dad used to call me “human trash”, “son of a bi__h”. My Mom is ugly and did not finish school. I hate her.
My stepmom disciplines me whenever I do bad things. I am afraid to tell the truth because I am going to get disciplined.
Whip my behind with a belt’s buckle.
Cover my mouth and nose to stop me from breathing for 15 to 20 seconds.
Put my hands on a kettle with water boiling in it.
Make me eat and swallow boiling soup.
Consume 3 tall glasses of black coffee without sugar nor cream to make me stay awake all night.
Make me sleep on the cement floor without clothes on.
Break my fingers.
Box my ears repeatedly.
Spray alcohol or cologne or perfume in my eyes.
Submerge my head in a pail of water.
Bite me all over my body.
Make me go round and round in circles until I fall from being dizzy.
I eat fruits with worms already in it.
I eat dog food.
I lick the toilet bowl to clean it.
When I vomit because of force feeding, I eat my vomit and clean the floor with my mouth.
I do push ups until I faint with exhaustion.
I ran away – twice. I came right back. Maybe when I am good, she will love me like her own. There are moments she loves me, buys me toys and food. I love her more than anything in the world.
If I could only have a new face so I would not remind her of my ugly Mom, just maybe, she will love me.
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[…] Poetry about child abuse from child's point of view, very moving … […]
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Dear Emmah,
I thank you for writing and pray to if you want and are ready that you can tell your family. It breaks my heart to hear someone so young having been hurt so bad. As a mother you want all children to be safe and happy and I am so sorry that was not the case for you. I thank you and applaud you for your courage and strength to share with us today. You will make it, I can tell from your words. Thank you for the poetry.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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i sing a song that speaks of my pain,
i paint a picture that reveals my soul,
i write a poem that breaks the silence, but,
i can never forget the night you stole what belongs to me………………………..my innocence
dear bethany,
i am so blessed to have come across this site, i feel much better as a person than i have ever felt in a long time. i am also a victim of child abuse but i never had the courage to tell anyone about it. i hope that one day i have enough courage to tell my parents about what happend.
the reason i feel much better is the fact that you were open about your incident to all of us and you trusted us with the information. thank you for being so strong at such an early age in life, i am seventeen now and i hope that one day i’l be able to be strong enough to tell the ones i love about what happend………………..
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Oh my God!!!!I hid under my bed and in the closet, i was so scared,” i’m why are you so mad, i’m sorry ‘, please….don’t look at me…..i’ll do it better……i’ll never telll….sob..sob…it never goes away….!!!!!!
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Dear Bethany,
I have to admit I read lots of posts here and yours really broke my heart and brought tears to my eyes. You have been through some really horrific things for such a young little girl. I commend you for our strength. How you have come as far as you have is an amazing sign of your strength. You give us all strength. As a mother I am so sorry that you had to go through all of this, you did not deserve any of it.
Thank you for the poem and for so much of your heart that you have shared with us all today. We are here for you, let us know how we can support you darling. You mean so much to the world, you will make such an impact on others with your story and all that you have been through.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
You can just search by keyword Poetry, or click on the link for poetry blog.
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hello,
I want to tell you my story. I am called Bethanie and I’m 14. I live in care in England, this is due to neglect, sexual and physical abuse. The reason I’m looked after by the local authority is because I gave myself a voice!
This is what happend the night I told and leading up to it!
I want to tell you something that nobody but me knows (apart from the other D***head involved) and this is through trust. This is really hard for me and I’m scared that once I speak up, life will only get tougher for me.
It’s about when I was four; the disclosure I made was of a man sexually assaulting me in an alley when we were supposed to be getting some milk for my mum.
I’d been locked in my room all day and I had to open a window to get rid of the smell. We didn’t have much space the three of us in the grey room at the back of the house. Mum gave us some bread and told us it was the best meal we would be getting ever. We slowly nibbled at it because we wanted it to last. But Jessica couldn’t eat bread yet so she gave me some milk to feed her with.
Andy came into the room and smashed a plate on the floor. He said “I told you to wash them, not to rinse them, with soap.” Jessica began to cry and I comforted her as best I could. He got even angrier and took her off me. As he was putting her down she hit her head. He asked me if I wanted to go and get some things from the shop with hit but I said no. He slapped me and locked the door on the way out.
Another day… He asked me but tempted me with the park so I just said yes. He took me to the park and told mum that we were going to get milk on the way home. I sat on the swing and he pushed me so high I fell off. He picked me up and I immediately stopped crying, just in case he hit me. He laughed. He had an awful laugh, one that could be feared. He told me that he loved me and that I was a very special little girl, he kissed me and then he took me home, we forgot the milk.
The week after that he took me to the park again and I was at first reluctant to go but mum forced me to she said that she will look after the babies and I could have fun. So I went and I avoided the bid swings this time.
I went on the climbing frame and then the roundabout, he pushed me but every time we he went past me he touched my leg. I got off the roundabout and I felt scared, so I ran but I didn’t really know where I was. So I ran down this alley and still didn’t know where to turn but I stupidly stopped and sat on the floor hoping that he wouldn’t find me. However he caught up with me and noticed me sitting in the corner. He told me that I was a very naughty girl and that I shouldn’t have run off like that. I nodded unsure of what was happening to me.
He slowly pulled down my elasticised jeans and touched me, and told me he loved me and not my mum and that he wanted to do this again tomorrow. I told him I was at my grandma’s house tomorrow and I couldn’t and he hit me and throw my jeans at me, and said “Who is more important, somebody who you love or family.” But I didn’t reply to him I was too upset.
After that he told me that “you are a worthless piece of junk that needs a life and if ever, you should mention this, nobody will believe you and you will be locked away, where they put dead people and you won’t get let out.” I was terrified, I put my jeans on.
He grabbed me by my wrist and dragged me home, he was digging him nails in so deeply it drew blood. I told my mum but she didn’t believe me, she hit me and then locked me in my room. I thought he was right.
Mum told me that that liars go to hell and end up dying because their head got chopped off and I bet you can imagine how scared a four year old was.
I never did know what to do… my conscience said I needed help, FAASSTT but my heart was telling me I was going to break up my family and end up alone.
I let I happen a couple more times before I told anybody, He did something else to me one of those times and when I was that age I called it his stick, and he made me touch it, it was awful.
The first time I told my mum, she was sat on the couch with Jessica reading, and for the first time I felt like I was safe, He was at work and my mum was being herself, she was being a mum.
So, I jumped up on the couch and sat next to her. She hugged me and the two others, for a while and suggested we played TIG so mum was on and then it was my turn and then Daniel’s and Jessica was in her walker running around too. We had been playing this for over an hour so we just laid in the middle of the floor, laughing and joking with each other.
Mum said “ you are my little princess you know, and I love you soo soo much.”
I said “would you still love me if Andy wasn’t here.”
Mum sat up and said “Why?”
I told her about the park and she said “You’re lying and my princess doesn’t lie, so Bethany has to go to her room, until Andy comes home.”
“Fine, I don’t care.” I said. I didn’t feel like a princess and I just wanted my mum to believe me for the first time in my life I wanted her to love me… just once.
When he came home he came to my room and told he that I had to punished, punished badly-I wanted my mum now. But he did it again twice and my mum came in and she just watched… she just watched and started and I was so scared….
I just wanted my life to be normal, like a normal child. I was scared and nervous of what lay ahead and for a change I wanted my mum to be there for me and the other two kids.
At the moment I want my mum I miss her and when I think about this I miss her even more. I knew what Andy did wasn’t right but I wish I really never said anything about what he did because I made my mum hate me… I made my family break apart and I felt so alone and even know I feel responsible for breaking up my precious family.
This happend when I was just 4. I remember it as clear as yesterday, I wish it never happend but it did and I know that I can’t change it now. But on the upside it has made me the person I am… a shy young person, but one which sets herself clear boundries and writes and helps others with what she has experienced!
But I do wish I never told I mean I feel very suicidal at the moment because it was my mum’s wedding on saturday and I never even got to go….
This is my poem about child abuse:
As I noticed my self becoming old and grey
I knew it was time to visit the girl of yesterday
she had been kept hidden
in a place where other had been forbidden
she knew I had to leave her long ago
so one of us could find the strength to grow
I promised her someday I would return
for she was my main concern
no one could understand how her and I connect
for I was the one present tduring the crime and neglect
As I oipened the doors of yesterday
I hear the soung of children happily at play
but I noticed her sitting all alone and sad
Until our eyes met and she became glad
we reunited by hugging and kissing one another
like a beloved daughter and mother
I comforted her and dried away her tears
that had been so painful for so mant years
as I looked in her small eyes of grey
I told her that the monster had gone away
she looked up yo me and said “I love you.”
I replied “I Love you too.”
Somebody who cares finally set her free
THAT LITTLE GIRL I USED TO BE
^^ please tell me what you think!!
So your poem!!
your poem touched my heart because I know exactly where the character is coming from and it’s lovely coming from a child’s perspective because it strongly expresses how we feel when we are being abused and frankly I know for myself that I just wanted to die and I remember on an occation I asked my mum to kill me and she locked me in my room for cheekiness and slapped me too.
Do you have any other poem’s ??
I would be intreguied to hear them 🙂
thank you
From
Bethhyy x
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I love dis poem so much, it remind me of what i been though so let the parent kno that child abuse is not a joke or a game.
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This poem touched me so deeply I have a 15mnth old and I would never want for someone to even raise a hand to him or Im going to jail but that poem brought tears to my eyes
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That poem was really sad it brought tears to my eyes i have a little one 15 mnths old and I would never even raise a hand he is just so innocent
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Dear Birdy,
Your post broke my heart, you know how others feel all too well. I encourage you to write again. If you want I set up a post just for you to share you can post your own writing and such at Birdy’s Story. Being so young you will help others know they are not all alone. God bless you and may you have the life of your dreams.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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Hello Robin,
I am, you keep strong too, it is the support that helps us all.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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Dear Vanessa,
Never take a good parent for granted, you are blessed. I thank you for being so honest.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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dam
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dam i feel bad for those people how r being abused even though i have a great mom i treat her lke shit nd i shouldnt be doin tat but i feel so sad for those who r being abused by there perents
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Thank-you Rebecca,
God bless you and your heart of gold. Keep strong.
Robin
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OMG!
that was an amazing poem, so moving , but how could anyone do such a thing to thier children.
But i must say i relate to this. My step~father would come home from work and take all his anger out on my mother and sisters that i just couldn’t take it no more. I would make them go up stairs when it was time to come home and i would get all the beatings my family hated it, my friends were always worried for me. Sometimes it got so bad i could move for days or even open my eyes because they swollen shut. I even had fix my self up cover up marks and bruises with makeup so teachers won’t get suspicious. Until my best friend got so scarred when he broke five of my ribs dislocated my shoulder and broke my jaw that i couldn’t cover my self up that she had to help me with everything. she eventually called the police on him right when he going to kick me agian. i was sent to the hosspitale after that and was in their for two hole weeks in the bed.
So i understand what some kids are going though and let me say if you are going though this situation tell somebody don’t do what i did.
i’m 15teen know and my step`father was sent away 3 yrs ago. love you all
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hi wat u said wuz soooooooooooo saaaaaaaaaaaad i feeeeeeeeeeel very sssssoooorrrrry those people who have or are being abused.
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Dear Past Abuse Survivor,
Your story was one of hope and encouragement that yes, the pain of violence can stop. You need to be so proud of what you have done, mothers like you are the ones that stand up and take a stand, knowing your son will never, ever be abused. I read many sad stories on here and I have to say that yours is one of the most uplifting. I will use your story in an upcoming book of a true example, yes the cycle can stop.
I am so proud and wish that I had had the strength that you have, you have given your son a chance at an amazing life.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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Hannah,
Sorry for the tears but it is what it is. Horrible to hear.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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this poem is horible it redussed me to tears
why do that?
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i am duing a poem book for school and i read this poem and i cried its really sad. 😦
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I am a victim of abuse…When I got married I did not want children….maybe because I was afraid of the things my stepmother and father did to me. I heard that it’s a cycle that you can not break and you too will do the same to your children. I read every abuse story and all the parents that did the abuse were abused themselves as children. I feared myself! After being married for several years,my loving grandmother encouraged me to have a child of my own. Since, I was the only one that has not given her a great grandchild. I see what other members of my family have done to their children, and how my parents abused their grandchildren. I was afraid but I did get pregnant. I had a healthy beautiful baby boy. The minute he was born and put on my chest, I promised him that he will NEVER experience the abuse I had as a child. I remember the pain and the suicidal attempts I made, and my parents telling me if I really wanted to kill myself to jump in front of a train. I felt soooo alone and very sad throughout my childhood which should be happy times. I did allow my parents to see my son, but they were never alone with him because of the abuse he had done to my nephew and niece. I was hoping this time would be different. But as my son started to walk and explore I was seeing the demon coming out if them again. It was minor things..for example, my son at this time was 1 yr old and he kept throwing a ball into the bushes I kept getting it for him and he kept repeating by throwing it again in the bushs and I would get it for him, after several times I was going to get the ball and my father grabbed my arm and said let HIM get the ball out of the bushes. I said he (my son) will get hurt! and he said, Then he will not do it again! I was furious…and told him no, and if anyone ever hurts MY child I will kill them no matter who they are!! My stepmother and father were left speechless! They do not see my son and I have no contact with them at all. I can honestly thank my father and stepmother for teaching me about what kind of parent I will not become. My son is a very happy 9 year old and yes I broke the vicious cycle of child abuse. I have never laid a hand on my son other than to give him a pat on the back for encouragement… I never want my son to feel the pain I did growing up. He has asked my why doesn’t he have contact with my parents and I tell him the truth…because they are abusive…
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Dear Melissa,
I wanted to write something suitable for a six year old to read, I have a 4 year old and thought this might be suitable. Most of mine of much too much for a young child. My name is Bobby is read often but much too old for her but maybe you and pick out parts.
What child abuse is not…
Child abuse is not kind
Child abuse is not loving
Child abuse is not acceptable
My name is ……. and I will not tolerate abuse of any kind.
Or I might suggest that you take what you think is suitable from the following poem:
You can read the entire poem at Poem, My Name is Bobby
My name is Bobby, Although you never hear me speak,
I’ve lots to say.
Even though you never see me smile,
Deep inside I’m still your child.
Although you don’t know my name,
I breathe in and out just the same.
This game you play, I don’t know the rules,
I go to school, and I try to be,
The child you dream.
One foot forward and two steps back,
you did it wrong now take that slap.
Get off the floor you silly fool;
Go cry your tears into Winnie the Pooh.
I don’t want to play this game, I don’t know the rules, I don’t want to play your stupid game no more. Take away the board, smash it on the floor, Daddy won’t you let me know the way, to play this game you play, I’ll learn the rules someday.
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My 6 yr old daughter is a representative of our local Exchange Club and needs to recite a poem about child abuse. Does anyone have any suggestions of something age appropriate for her?
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omg im well annoyed now aint being funny but
if i ever knew a abuserr i would be very ashnamed
whats the point in having a baby if all ur gonna do is hit them u have problems if u ask me ?
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Sorry it took so long to respond. I was so happy to get your reply. Funny the little things that can help. I encourage you to find other ways to get through this difficult time if you can not leave. You have a beautiful spirit, I can sense it. Writing helps, if it will not cause you any harm please let us know how you are doing. Seek support always. Be strong and live.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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I am so very happy for you. I hope to hear from you soon with words of how you are happy for good. I want you to take care of yourself and your family. You sound like such a strong you lady, to be dealing with so much at such a young age. Your mom is lucky to have you, the baby too. You can only take care of you and your baby, your sister will make her own choices, you can only be there for her for support.
By sharing what you are feeling you will feel so much better. I encourage you not to hold it in anymore, you do not need to. Please write again. I wish you and your family all the best.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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Wow, that was really powerful. I thank you for sharing it and wish you all the best in finding your father.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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omg this is one of the sadest poems i have ever read it made me cry hereing the pain some children go threw and that some kids have to put up with this kind of pain
please just be nice to your kids they are special
love mikala
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there is a poem on this website (i think) that i felt i related to alot, i cut somethings from it and added somethings ill copy and paste it..
● ● Do you know what it’s like to live with fear ? ● To be afraid every day of your life ● and to know you can’t escape from the source of your fear ? ● ● Do you know what it’s like to struggle for acceptance ? ● and find only criticism instead ? ● ● Do you know what it’s like to feel as tho nothing you do is right ? ● ● Do you know what it’s like to hear words such as ● “you’re useless” ● “you’re Fuckin stupid” ● “little spoilt Bitch” ● and to hear these words so often you believe them ? ● ● Do you know what it’s like to feel as if every breath you draw is a waste of oxygen ? ● To feel as if suicide is the only option ● but be too afraid to do it ? ● ● Do you know what it feels like to think you are so useless you can’t even kill yourself ? ● ● Do You kno what its like to watch the ones you love the most get physically abused right infront of your eyes ? and the only thing you can do is try and stop it but you get physically abused yourself ● ● Do you know what its like when the only reason why you havnt ran away from home ● is because you feel as tho you are the only one who can protect the ones you love the most ? ● ● If you answered no ● then you are lucky ● because it means you have never been abused ● ● If you answered yes ● then I pray you have had the courage and strength to turn your life around ● and find all the beauty and goodness buried deep inside you ● Because it IS there ● no matter what anyone else tells you ● The healing road is long and hard ● but it is worth the journey ● x
i also wish to look for my real farther im on the search i thaught id post what i kno of him here, i would really like to be incontact with him,
PLEASE READ!! IF YOU’RE NAME IS:
Steven Robert Parsons
AND YOU’RE BIRTHDATE IS:
22-3-64
AND U GREW UP IN: england & australia
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um.. btw.. i am an artistic person, well thats what my syciatrist has told me, i love doing art so thats what i mostly do, i miss school.. i got rumerd about and becuase i have very high enxiety i broke down i couldnt go to school from all of the rumours, i lost my friends because of the rumours, i loved school b4 the rumours because it was the only place i felt as tho i could get away from home, so then when i couldnt go to school becuase of rumours i had no where, where i was happy, we moved because my step dad wanted towork somewhere else in the mines. i went to a new school i have new friends, i felt as tho my life was finally going good i was happy i could get away from home at school i also got my self a job in a pharmacy i loved it, i also was alot hapyer because my sister was also going down hill b4 we moved she was on weed, drugs, acid trip, constantly getting smashed, she also became fat and all the guys knew her (if you kno what i meen). i looked up to my sister (my only sister older sister, we are best friends it killed me what she was doing to her self.. she has learnt the rele hard way, she has just had a baby she is with a man she has picked up she only smokes now, her man (farther of baby) has his own son to that bianca looks after, her man isnt so good.. he dosnt want to work as a cars sales man because he didnt like his boss.. they live on money from centercare, i meen i love my sister but im trying very hard not to follow her path watching her i learn from her mistakes, i want to live with my mum and baby bro till i kno my mum is safe, she plans to leave rob for real well not leave him but get her own house near my sister mum says if he dosnt like the fact that i dont want to live with him thats his problem he can either work with me so he can at least still see his son, if he dosnt want to work with me on that then its his loss, when mum told me that i couldnt stop smileing, in the next day or to is when mum planns to tell him (step dad) im very scared i hope nothing to bad happens but soon as its over ill be very glad ill have a new life and a new job im looking very forward to this new life 🙂 my man dale we have been together for 7 months he is helping me and being here 4 me he is scared for my mum and me & my brother.. i think life for me the moment is rele good.. hopefully when mum tells rob we r leaving it will go ok if not i always have 000, im not going to let rob affect me anymore. as my mum tells me (he feels so shit about him self he is trying to pull u down to his level).
i rele cant believe im saying alla this.. ive kept it inside to long.. i always felt as tho people (friends as well) would think im saying this for attention…
i rele just want to get this off my chest so i can get on with my life make my own life happer for me because i deserve it, i have a hole life a head of me i promice my self that i wont let someone affect my life, not anymore.
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wow.. thanx im rele glad you replyed to my comment im crying but i feel so good inside to kno that some one understands me and to kno some one is there for me, thank yooh for your support 🙂 🙂 i love what you say about secretly saying ass hole as a key word for dad that made me laugh, hehe hell wonder why im calling him dad all of a sudden all the time 😉 😉 anyways ill keep up putting my tru feelings on here to get everything off my chest.. love mickey x x
p.s. thanx again Rebecca 🙂
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Dearest Michaela,
It broke my heart in 2 to read your post. I live in what you describe too. My biggest piece of advice is to bite your tongue and find a way to release what you are holding in. What do you like to do, read, write, draw. If you could do anything all day what would it be. For me it is writing. I would lay in bed and pretend I had another life. I moved out when I was just 16 with a friend, worked and supported myself. Once you are not under his roof, things will change. It will be up to you if you decide to let the rest of your life be controlled by this person. I know how offenseive saying dad is, I get that. Rename Dad in your head to asshole. Then when you are saying it you will smile, he won’t know why but you will, your little secret.
I wish I would make it all better for you, difficult when you are a child and can not escape. Do not for one minute think because you were not raped that you have suffered any less. Verbal abuse last so long. You will determine the outcome in your life. Once you are gone from his home you will decide if this will make you stronger or make you weak. Read everything that you can get your hands on about becomming strong, motivational, healing books. I myself love Anthony Robbins, Wayne Dyer and such. Helps you to realize that it is up to you on how you see each incident.
Feel free to write here anytime, just to get things off your chest. Normally just finding out that you are not alone helps so much. As a grown up I would just come oneline and find a blog or forum and type. You are so not alone and will find that out soon.
Everyone here is now holding you in their prayers. To everyone out there please post and let Michaela know strangers care what happens to her and we are here to support her.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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hello my name is michaela im 16 i was abused going through woman hood (10 till now) my step dad gets violent when drunk and pissed.. he dosnt realise how hard he is… he has been diagnosed with bipolla i dont kno how you spell it but his medicattion didnt work so he was diagnosed with depression… he goes so wild when he is angry and pissed.. some big fights with my mum he gets physicaly abuseive then after later on that night he sooks and crys.. to her…i only have a good relation sship with my step dad when im not living under his house.. idk why..
idk if im the only one in the world who goes through what ive been through.. idk but sometimes i feel really alone.. i meen i kno i havnt been through the worst like rape and alla that i get bruses sometimes with some fights.. but not all the time.. the only thing that i really hate is the memories im stuck with.. and just waiting for the next fight to happen.. i know im a bitch to my step farther.. i just have no respect for him he has lost all the respect and love that i had for him.. idk if im in the wrong or what.. i dont talk to any one about this but i just rele need to get every thing off my chest, im always so sad and negitave.. i never used to be that way.. i feel as tho im turninnng into a horrable person like my step dad… my mum knows i hate him.. im not alowed to call him by his name.. if i do its “wtf did you just call me?” and then ill have to say sorry da.. i hate the fact that i have to call him dad.. i just want to kick my self every time i say it im starting to not call him anything i find it easer.. for me.. can some 1 plz talk to me i dont want the cops knoing i just need some one to talk to.. just to get everything off my chest..
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Thank you, this is the most widely used poem on child abuse from this site. Thank you, I wish you well.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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Hi, I haven’t read this poem fully but I agree with some comments saying that it is powerful and true.. I’ve copied it and I’m doing an english speech and research on child abuse so I’m going to use this poem…
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this is mine that i added…
Poor Little Mary Sue
……………………
There was a little girl named Mary Sue
Her father was a drunk
And her mum was too
Her mother took ice
And her father took speed
And when they got angry
Mary was treated just like a weed
They kicked her and hit her
And chucked her in the attic
And her mother said that she had just had it
Poor little Mary came out of the room
That was when her father
Hit her with the broom
He said,
“It’s all your fault she did this so…”
“She stabbed herself but now I know.”
“You’re a stupid little girl and you deserve to die.”
“Just like your mother did only last night.”
Mary sat crying,
In the corner of the room,
Her father went downstairs,
He said he new what to do.
Mary Cried and cried,
All through the night
Then she went downstairs,
And screamed at the sight.
Her father was in the hallway,
But he wasn’t touching the floor
He hung himself from the ceiling,
He was only 24
She tried to help him,
But it was too late,
Why did he do it?
Was it hate?
The little girl ran to the front door,
But it was locked,
Wood was nailed from the door to the wall.
She ran to the window,
But that was locked to,
What on earth was she going to do??
Little Mary screamed,
With all her might.
It would have been a terrible sight…
Poor little Mary in the house all alone,
Every one had just left her and gone..
But all of a sudden
There was a bang at the door.
Was it her imagination?
Or was it real?
Oh! Poor little Mary didn’t know what to feel…
Then from the front door,
Came a yell,
Is anyone in there?
I’m here to help.
Oh! Did Mary start to cry?
Was it fear?
No it was joy from her eyes…
Mary ran to the door,
Once again…
Where she saw the man standing there.
Was he her friend?
He said my name is Blue…
Are you Mary Sue?
Yes she cried,
With great excitement.
My parents are dead,
But you’re real right?
Why… Yes I am Mary.
Are you ok?
This must have been quiet a fright.
Having no one here,
In the middle of the night.
Poor little Mary,
I’m here to take you away.
“Where to” she cried??
To a better place……
By Joelene Wilson..
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Dude-
OMG! This is sooooooooo! sad!! my family and i were ALL abused as children and w know exactly how this feels. I’m writing a book and i need permission to use this in my story. It would really mean a lot…
Im 14 and i havce a band- Children of the Unforgiven Dispute-
and we write songs about this kind of thing…
if ANYONE wants to hesr eny of my poems or song or writing PLEASE feel free to e-mail me at prano81@yahoo.com.
Thank you…
Beth Lynn Davis; 2nd Gitaur
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OH. MY. GOD. This poem is soooooo sad! My whole family have been sexually abused and i know exactly how this feels! Can i have your permission to use this in a book that im writing? It will really mean a lot…
i want to let people know that this is what us children are going through when this happens. I also have a band – Children of the Unforgiven Dispute- and we right songs that mostly have to do with this type of thing. Please e-mail me! I want to show you some of my writing related to this. Anybody- if you want to see some of my poems PLEASE e-mail me att prano81@yahoo.com!
Thank you…
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This is so horrifyingly moving…
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I am just letting you know that i am going to use this in my multigenre research paper
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I am a Bahamian guidance counsellor. I worked with children of all ages. Your poem relates much to a vicious nuisance for children everywhere and raises awareness that child abuse can happen to anyone because of anger, resentment or so many other things that stem from unresolved issues. Well, this month we raise the awareness of child abuse and I will be using your poem in a drama. The students’ response after the first dry run was an intense “wow what a powerful poem”.
Thanks for opening their eyes to see and feel, enough to tend to a hurting a child’s need for HELP.
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I feel for you. I was abused a year ago but i called for help one day and my parents were taken to jail and
I now live in house with my foster parents. 😦 😦 😦
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amazing poem. thank you.
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OMG!! this is so sad. In class i am working on a story of why chld abuse is bad and why parents do that ect, and i was looking for some poems to put in and i found this one. As soon as school starts tuesday i am going to show 99% of my friends this and i hope they will like it as much as i did. This really got to me. I am still crying. I hope you write more
M.K.
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Wow that is intense i working to be a social worker to keep children from that problem
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I’m considering using your poem for a dance performance to raise awareness about child abuse. Is there any way I could change the pronoun “he” to “she” throughout the poem? I have a female dancer and using “he” might be confusing for the audience. Let me know what you think? I will still give all credit to you and make a note about the change in pronouns. Thankyou.
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that is so good i loved it you spoke truely how you felt about your situation
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omg thats touching. i cant believe someone would take a child into there world to just abuse them.
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Dear Joker,
Sad that a poem this sad is so well received. I am so very sorry for your loss, it is a loss for the world. This blog is here for comfort and awareness. Thank you for sharing such pain.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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Sadly enough, i am sorry to say, but i have just lost a friend to child abuse. It was quite sad to say the least. I really hope if any child is going through this they have to speak up and be heard, it’s sad that children have to go through this tramatic experience at such a young age. If you know ANYONE who is abused, report it to proper authorities, do not let it go. If you suspect something call CPS or something, just don’t take matters into your own hands, the person may be dangerous. This poem help you realize how terrible child abuse can be.
Great job on the poem!
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I would be more than glad to make a new one.
Hope this poem will touch many more people.
God bless and more power.
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This poem is great. It conveys exactly how i felt as a child and still do now im an adult to a certain extent sometimes i still feel as if i am that child, I was an abused child in every way imaginable i was let down by the system and it upsets me so much to see that so many children are still going through what i did and that so many children are also still being let down the system it makes me so cross. I remember my step-mother hitting me and then telling me it was cos she loves me, at least now i know its not true and i know it wasnt ‘normal’ for that to happen.
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Bealau,
Thank you, I was touched with your post and would love to hear the responses. Check out the posts above the poem was just placed on utube. Maybe we can use some of what you students write here as well.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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OMG, I watched the video 2 times and it made me cry both times. It was very moving and conveyed the point I am sure you were looking for. I was deeply touched that you used my poem, this is the reason that I wrote it.
I promise to share this with everyone. I am going to place it as a post of its own. Please come back and share more of your work.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca xo
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hey! I know that this is kinda late. because this beautiful poem was posted a year . But when i read it, I just had to make a video out of it. Hope you guys can take a time to check it out.
Child abuse is one of THE most twisted things children are experiencing.
Please, Let us all help in our little ways to stop it.
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Two poems about child abuse through the eyes of a little girl.
Dear God.
By Emily Stoward.
Dear God,
Please help my mummy,
I know that she doesn’t mean to hurt me,
She’s just sad,
My bruises will fade and my cuts will heal
But mummy’s pain is bigger,
She needs you more then me right now,
Amen.
And another I wrote recently.
You and I.
By Emily Stoward.
You fall pregnant and I begin.
You regret me and I’m confused.
You hunt and I hide
You yell and I’m silent.
You hit and I bruise.
You attack and I die.
You pray and I listen.
You apologise and I forgive you.
You cry and I hurt.
I will always be a reaction to you,
I’m just as sorry as you are that I was born,
I’m sorry I couldn’t be the daughter you wanted,
I love you mummy, goodnight.
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There are so many comments here about how child abuse is a “weakness of the parents” and to this i agree strongly. However, the comments mentioning “parents/people need to realise that children have feelings too is a complete understaement.
Children love without convincing,
Trust without reason
And believe without proof.
The children of our world are amazing beautiful young people (i am barely out of childhood myself, 16. and have a amazing younger brother, 13, and gorgeous baby cousins, friends etc who i simply adore.) the strength of a child’s heart is that of ten men. A child will not turn on parents as the parents do on the child.
What I am really trying to get across here is that people don’t realise, or maybe they don’t remember, that children will show more love then any other creature on this earth, sadly most of this innocence leaves us as we get older and grow up, but as long as people remember that beauty and freedom of love they had as a child, we will be able to lower the rates of child abuse considerably…
Thankyou for reading my (possibl naiive) words,
I lack life experience and therefore may not be the best judge of these situations, but i know what it’s like to feel forgotten and unloved.
Emily.
Please do not think that i was implying that i was/am an abused child, my parents are amazing, wonderful people and i love them immensly, i wish more children’s parents could be like my own.
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man that really toucxhed me i feel happy inside but sad on the outside its weird
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i dont really now what to say, this poem is like my everyday life. But i was in dinial, and when i was at a restaurant , some man that i’ve never seen before gave me a paper that read ” Time heals all” that is when i finally realized that its gonna be all over soon, once i go to college and have my one life. I read this poem and i can’t help but cry my eyes out, i love how it is through the eyes of a child.
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wow i really feel bad for these children. i will keep them in my prayers and will try to start a fundraiser. i wish u all my luck. :]
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Hi! I will use your poem as part of my long test in Literature. I will let my student apply what they have learned about poetry analysis on your poem. If you want I can share some of their responses to it with you…I always try to find meaningful poems for my students to analyze and I believe they will learn a lot from this one. God bless you!
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Yes thats true, children have a voice to express themselves too!!
I only hope that child abuse will come to an end as I see it a way of weakness on the adults part.
I was not abused as a child, but as a writer am able to also express myself in my poetry through the eyes of a child.
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LIttle Jack
I sat in the corner like little Jack
Dad hit mum in her back
As she fell to the floor
He gave her a beating Id never seen before
He cried ‘Do you want some more,
now get off the floor and go get the children dem dinner.’
Mum couldn’t move for a while all Dad did was smile.
Mum was in bits
She cried out for help he never listened to her
I daren’t run to her aid
I was too afraid.
I just sat in the corner like little Jack
Listening to mum and dad
Shout back at each other
It all started out with one little argument
Mum threw a chair
Dad grabbed hold of her hair
How could such an argument turn out like that
he gave her one big clout
Right in she mout
She fought back; mum was always strong like that.
She turned to make her way to the kitchen
That’s when he hit her in her back
She fell to the floor
So he beat her some more
He smiled and made his exit through the back door
Gone to the pub I’m sure
He just left mum lying there
Dead for all he cares
I was still in shock
Someone had called the police
I was left to pick up the pieces
And to tell them exactly what I saw.
©Janet Plummer2008
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i feel so sorry for u
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Leci- That was so sad!! i wish no body would ever abuse children. There too cute to hurt! I hope someday people are able to do more things to prevent Child Abuse.:[.
<3.
Lyssa-Wow I Dont Understand Why This Happens To People I Dont Get It!! I Wish It Would Just Stop!!!I Hope One Day People will realize that Children Have Feelings too just Like Everyone does And That Abusing Kids Isnt Right!!
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this reminds me of lot of things
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hai…is there anyway i can read more of your poems?
thanks for this poem. it a really sad poem i wish all the bad people would read this.
and i want to top child abuse in my country. but its becoming more and more..
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manau kad smurtas seimoje ir visur kitur zmoguje palieka dideli randa jos irdyje vis amziamx liks traumuotas nors ir atrodys kad jam viskas gerai.
mano sirdis sako:
as busiu gera,
as stangsiuosi,
as noriu buti gera,
bet jeigu tu mane suprasi ir jeigu mylesi mane, saugosi mane, jeigu rupinsies manimi…
I can’t writenn in english good because I am from Lithuania and I can’t say that what I mean… sorry
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I’m 17 and have a four year old daughter. She was the second child I had out of three but the only one i was able to keep. Her and my two sons were born as a result of years of abuse from my step-father. This poem moved my deeply because i counld relate to it in so many ways. there are days that you just wished it would end, and at times for me it felt that death was the only way out of it all. Me, my brothers and sisters, and my little girl are now all free from the abuse that mr mother and step-father put us through, but it only came through the death of my little sister Cassie. She was 6, and beaten to death by her father (step-father to me) while our mother watched it happen.
Anyone who is being abused, you need to speak up. Remember it’s not your fault and there are people who want to help you.
RIP Cass xx
Thank you for the poem, it’s true, sadly, in so many ways.
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Oh my god.
its really good but really said
i am going to use it for a school project
is that ok?
email and let me know with in 2 hours PLEASE :]
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Janet i have read some of your poems. iIdo find them very inspirational and true to life.. Keep up the good work
Lydris..
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I recently had an assignment on child abuse as I am studying early childhood education. As part of an assignment we had to conduct a lesson to give to the class about abuse, statistics and our role to identify abuse and as carers our role to support children. I found this poem and have used it as a handout for the class, it was very moving.
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I loved this poem, it inspired me to stop child abuse all over the world and someday I may achieve that and when I do it will be the hapiest day of my life. thank u for writing this and making me see what kids go through. Sincerly, Tiffany
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i felt the pain of bobby and its so hard to believe that a little boy could actually write this.
it cuts well deep and has made my cry…
i just wish i was a ble to tell people about my abuse that happend a while back
i wish now i hadnt been so qiuet and told som 1 who could have done somthing a bout it
i thnk you for opening my eys and i feel like i am strong enough to tell som1 about everything that happend
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very moving!
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Dear Rachel,
That was such a heartfelt, touching entry that you left. I really am touched by how the poem moved you to tears like that. With young kids that think the way that you do we can change the world and stop abuse. Nothing is impossible and we should never stop fighting to stop this fight. Share the poem, share the knowledge and share your love most of all.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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To all above requesting use of poem.
Thank you for requesting to use this poem. It is being widely used in schools and such. You have permission to use the poem, just put Rebecca J. Burns, me, as the author. Try and add a reference to this website to gain more attention for the poem and its message. You can only use the photo it using it with this poem, credit photographer, D. Sharon Pruitt.
Thanks again.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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Dear Monigue,
Thank you for your request for sharing this poem. As it states above, anyone can use the poem as long as you give me, Rebecca J. Burns credit as the author and D. Sharon Pruitt as photographer when using the photo with the poem for school projects.
I wish you all the best and thank you for supporting this issue.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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WOW, this is an extremely powerful poem. I would like to use this as a part of my class project on child abuse.
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Awwwzz this is my fav. poem in the WHOLE world it!
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SAD
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that is so sad that somehting like that could happen to you..and for no reason
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Wow I dont know if this is where i tell you how amazing this is or not, but I’m going to anyway.
It practically had me in tears [and the only reason I’m not, is cuz I’m in school].
I would love to use this poem and photo on my Presentation on Child Abuse in Houston. I dont actually know where I’m supposed to ask this so I’m going to make an effort and post my question here
Thank you for your poetry. Its strong and eye opening.
-Megan Elizabeth-
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this is so sad i wanted to cry…y do ppl have kids if all they r gunna beat them children dont deserve that the parents dont deserve to have kids…ughh it makes me so mad…
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i was very sad when i read that poem im only 12 years old and im soo soo lucky i didnt grow up being abused i feel for those children i read that bobby poem and it was really good but sad i almost cried see i dont understand why people do that to there children why do they even have child if they going to do that i guess they have angrey in side i dont know but its really sad thow i hope it would just stop i really would but it will never stop ever and thats a sad thought everday some poor insent child parents or parent or gaudian comes home and has to go threw thta pain and misery its just sad because they think its their fault and there little lives are going to be soo messed up or even if they get a chance to live its just so sad one of my friends read me this poem about child abuse for her progect and it was sad and at the very end the child died at the end just soo sad so many lives are killed i want to do somthing about it and how things chang in the future i really do
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Wow that is so touching I am doing a research paper on abuse. I am doing a domestic violence paper and this hits it right on the head thank you so much for doing this. It is a real inspiration to those who have or are in abuse situations.
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I too, am going to use your poem for a project I am doing. I am going to use both the poem and the pictures. Don’t wory I will give the credit where it’s due. This poem reminded me so much of A Child Called It. Your peom is very powerfull, speaking up for those who can’t find the words.
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Dear Tee,
I am glad you can use the poem for your project. Thanks for letting me know, best of luck in all that you do.
Rebecca
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im doin a project on child abuse, can i use this poem and dont worry i will put ur name below it for credit. this is so sad wen i started to read it. it brings tears to my eyes everytime i hear about a child being abused.
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that was the best poem i have ever read in my live . it is also sad
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i wish there is no powerful people in the world and i wish that everyone should be treated the same..
can we help
if you are in danger please phone child line.
dont let this happen
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hey im doing a project about child abuse and your poem goes purfect for it
i am going to use it and put you name at the bottom of the poem for credit
its a very tuching poem… good job
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well that is beauitful, i loved it!
age 15
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a perfect poem i really like it, it does have alot of meaning that soo great
MAYSN
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I love your poem I bet It”l realy help some kids Sabrina rios age 11
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I wanted to use the hands — not the face — of the boy in the photo in an icon I am making about a frightened boy. The image is haunting…
Thank you for sharing this. My heart aches.
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Dear Allie,
Glad to hear from you again, you will make your daughter so very proud.
I would suggest that you try reading some of the links that I have posted here. Several are blogs of abuse victims, getting their stories out and supporting others. Hopefully you can find something useful there. Telling your own story would be of great benefit to others. If you ever want to share it here feel free.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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Dear Ollie,
Copied from above? this is one of the most read posts on this blog. To help support other women and to help them find this supportive blog please link to this blog when possible. When you link here it increase the chance of it being found in search engines, again, allowing others to benefit from our support. My many thanks.
This poem and photo are all over the net now, please make sure to give kuddos to the author – Rebecca J. Burns and the photographer D. Sharon Pruitt, really appreciated.
You have permission to use this poem/photo as is for plays, newsletters, blogs and such as long as you give credit. Also, try and leave a blog post letting me know you are using it.
So yes Ollie, you have permission to use the photo.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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Hey is there any chance i can use the above photo for my GCSE english coursework please? thanks
Ollie x
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I had sent you a message before and again I am working on another project and I am wondering if you have any recommendations on literature or cuttings that you have came across. My subject is again child abuse. My email address is alyssa_1990@live.com. Please let me know what you come across. Again I feel that it is important to spread the awareness. Afterall my Daughter Abigayle is counting on me to protect her and if there is an awareness I am not the only one protecting her.
Thanks much Allie
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Dear Allie,
You are the person that I wrote this poem for, to show others how you felt or feel. I never suffered abuse to that degree as a child (yes, as an adult) and often tried to imagine how my son would have felt had his father been abusive to him as well.
I was deeply touched that you read this poem in class. Knowing that it somehow captured how you feel means the world to me.
You are what strength is, I can tell from your words. You are in my thoughts and prayers and I wish you all the best that life has in store for you.
I pray that you don’t let your past abuse define who you are because you are certainly something special Allie.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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I am now 17, but when I was thirteen I gave birth to a baby girl which was a product of me being abused by my stepfather. I Had to give a presentation in my interp class and I chose this poem as one of my three selections. I was abused for over half my life and I feel it is important that nobody ever has to go through what I did. Thank you so much for making this an awareness it means so much to me.
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this is so sad of a poem and i would like some to come to me in the mail!!!!
im so so sorry bobby!!!i hope u r better these days!!!
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this is a very sad poem and it reminds me alot of myself!
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Its so sad but true about some families! (Not mine) Its beautiful in a kind of sad way.
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hi i found that this poem was really intresting it showed alot of emotion form just reading the first lines. i am currently carrying out a unit in my photography abou trunaway and abused children and was hoping you would be able to help me if you had any idea of photographs i could research into. could you please email me back at kirti_kalyan@hotmail.co.uk
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this is powerful poetry but its almost to sad to read
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{tears}…super sad….i actually cried! i’m doing a reaserch report on child abuse and when i saw your poem i had to read it. i love this poem, and i pray for you and all the rest of the children who are abused [mwwah]
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Dear Nathan,
Sad when any relates to that poem. I really appreciated your comments and sadly, glad the poem related for you.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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I loved this poem. It reminded me of my own abuse. I am reminded all the time of my abuse, becasue i still live with my evil father. I also write true poetry about my abuse and one day wish to help others with their abuse.
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that is so sad but whoever that child is is very frightened and is not going to be able to have the time of his life in that house
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that is sooooooooooooooooooooooooo sad.i cant balieve that a child cud be so so so sad like this before.well i hope your safe and sound im supporting u all he way.i wil mke a video on it.from lilyxx
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your poem is a very interesting and vivid example of how a child feels during the time that they are abused. As a survivor of abuse I give all of the other readers that see this poem my true word that the expression that that child feels is very accurate to the reality. Anything to escape. Bravo to you and your poems.
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Truely impacting.
Can’t say i ever got abused but i still can feel with thoose who got.
Keep it going
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o.m.g. dat touched mi heart:'(
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We’ve decided to adopt a large sibling group instead of having biological children. There are thousands of children waiting for love in the world. We are preparing their future bedrooms, collecting toys, clothing, etc… Thank you for this site, the last straw, it is hartbreaking to see it but it is all around us and we must do more to help these children.
Sue
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Dear Rebecca,
Greetings from CMAI! We are an NGO consisting of 9000 Christian healthcare professionals and 330 Christian healthcare institutions committed to build a just and healthy society. Please visit our website for details. Every year we bring out a poster with a theme of assurance to those working in the remote villages, those in mission hospitals and those involved in community outreach programmes. The theme for the year 2008 is ” Let not your heart be troubled: A call to positive living.” For this theme we would like to use the photograph, the girl behind the bars, by Sharon Pruitt given in this page ( the smaller one). The photo is very apt and expression on those troubled eyes is very effectively shot. Is it possible to use this photo in our poster? We will credit the photographer. Please let me know your views on this.
With regards
Sumathi
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My mom was like that only with words. She never hit me but it felt like she did inside. This poem was so haunting but so good. I think that writing things like this are important so others can know what it feels like so they will think twice before hurting someone else. God bless you.
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Dear Megan,
Now if everyone thought like you and I do the world would be a better place for all children.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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Dear Luis,
I am so very sad for what you were forced to see. It does suck to realize that your parents didn’t care but you are not your parents. you did care adn I can tell or you never would have left your short post. I can see the pain you have because of watching your dog die. It breaks my heart. Don’t let the actions of others turn you cold forever. You are in my thoughts. I wish you the best in life.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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Dear Kaitlyn,
Thank you for writing. I am happy your friend has a friend like you! I hope she likes the poem, sad poems sometimes help us to know we are not alone.
Take care.
Rebecca
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I just read the poem. It is amazing. I am in grade 10 and am doing a project on child abuse. I also know a friend who was abused by her mom and her step-dad had no idea what was going on. I know how rough it is to grow up in an abusive home now because of my friend. The poem will touch her, I know that for sure.
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I SAW MY DAD KILL MY DOG, IT SUCKS TO REALIZE THAT MY PARENTS DIDNT CARE. WHY SHOULD I?
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Dear Siskin,
Of course, you have my permission to use any poem here as long as you give me full credit as author, Rebecca J. Burns and link site if you like.
If you use any of the photos please credit photographer, D. Sharon Pruitt, her photos are being used all over from this site.
I have many more if you look around.
I applaud what you are doing.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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Dear Tess,
Thank you, share the poem with anyone you like. I am sorry to hear that you can relate. I hope that at 14 you realize you have a great life ahead of you if you want it. Never let anyone take your spirit from you. let me know if there is every anything that I can do for you.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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Dear Neasha,
My heart goes out to you for all that you have been through. I bet you have some great poems deep down too. Poetry can be so healing. share this with anyone you like, that is the reason that I write to help express what others can’t.
Love and Peace,
Rebecca
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this is a sad and related peom to me i will love to share it to my friends
im 14
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i loved itt
so sadd
reminded me of another poem like that i know
goes like
my name is sam
i am 2
my eyes are black
my legs are blue…
this is so upsetting to know that people are treating children in this way
if you need any help advertising any other poems
i have many websites and other facilities to publish them so get in touch if you want
love
tessabellda
_Ox
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o.m.g amazing love it i can’t believe how much that touched me and
how that people would be so curle
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I feel really attached to poems like this because I was sexually and physically abused by my step-father for 4 or 5 years, and it only stopped late December 2006. I can’t remember some of it because I blocked it out, but the memories come back sometimes. Poetry like this helps me know there are people who understand what people like me have gone through and that I’m not the only one who this has happened to. Thank you so much.
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like this poem .. it made me cry ….
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Can i please copy what you wrote, offcourse wit you as a writer. Writing about abused children and courts who give abusers back custedy over the child. I hpoe you will not be mad at me,this issue is so important,hugs fromNorway
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this poem is so strong and sad
i can’t think of any reason a mother or father would want to hurt their child or children
and my heart goes out to any and every child who was abused or who is being abused
because your only a cild and you desrved to be loved and cherish like evey other child on thie planet
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Dear Ke Ke,
such a pretty name. I was sorry to hear that you have suffered this abuse as well. Sadly, in this world you are not alone. I hope that you have found away to move beyond what a horrible person has done to you and to allow yourself to be all that you can be in this world. If we dont’ try and change the bad in the world the bad will take over. Be well and be strong.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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Dear Joe,
You have my permission to use the above poem and photo on your blog. Just reference me (Rebecca J. Burns as writer and photographer as D. Sharon Pruitt)
I was touched by your post. I would love to add your updated quote to a listing here with your permission. Let me know how you want it credited….link to your blog, your name and such.
You can change the world with a mindset like yours. I wish you all the best that life has to hold. I loved the way you updated the quote.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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This is touching–
here’s a prayer 4 those in pain
God,grant me the serenity to accept the things i cannot change,courage to change the things i can,and wisdom to one moment at a time; Accepting hardship as a pathway to peace; Taking as Jesus did this sinful world as it is not right if i surrender to Your will; So that i may responsibly happy in this life and supremely happy with you forever in the next,when Lord you take me home.
Amen.
Originally by Reinhold Niebuhr
And edited by me…
Im 12… and im so lucky that i am doing a project on child abuse… im putting this Poem on my blog if thats ok… is it?
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this is so sad it brought a tear to my eye and i am only 14! this sadly happened to me but not as bad, which makes this poem hurt even more! it should be stopped!
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i think this is a sad poem. But i just want you to know that i endured the life of an abused child.
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The poem I´ve read , all the suffer is actually my life.
FROM ARGENTINA, BUENOS AIRES.
OZITA SUFFERED CHILD ABUSE
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I really feel for any child that is abused. I was never abused as a child (thank god) but I know there are millions of children out there that are. I feel as if every child is wonderful, and they all should have the ability to have as much fun as physically possible. They should never have to live in fear…and it makes me mad that anyone could ever hit a child for absolutely no reason. Thank you for writing poetry with this kind of a message. I think we need to do as much as we can to bring the attention to the fact that child abuse is a very real problem…and a lot more has to be done to stop it!
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THAT IS SOOOOOO SAD IT MADE ME CRY
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OMG this has helped me so much to realise how bad this actually is. I am doing an assignment on Child Abuse the poem has made it even easier for me to see what happens, yet so much harder to comprehend. I don’t understand how people can do this to a child anyone’s let alone their own. I’m sorry but anyone who does it is sick and need a serious wake up call. The poem is so strong and really wakes me up to how lucky i am to have the family i have, and how lucky i am to not live with my father anymore.
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Wow thats really powerful it cuts deep.
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Dear Steph,
Thanks for your kind comments. If you send an email to rebeccaburns@auto-responder.net, then click a confiramtion email (will be in junk mail) you will receive my free poetry book.
Also, since this will add you to my mailing list I will notify you when a new free poetry book, dedicated to this site (many poems from readers) will be ready. If you have a poem to submit email it to dreamfocused@earthlink.net or post it here. Either way posting or emailing give me permission to use it on my sites or books (full credit will be given of course) make sure to add what name you want under credits and if you have a site or such.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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This poem is fantastic, it really touched me as i have been through abuse my self during childhood, i would love to read some more of your poems thank you for this. xx well done
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Dear Jessica,
Thanks for commenting on this poem. It is one of my most widely read and some groups are using it for dv awareness. Post some of your poems here or email them to me with permission in the email to post them here. Poetry is one of the biggest requests that I receive here. You may be only 14 but I can tell how much you have already been through. I too had tried to commit suicide when I was 14 and was put in hospital for a few months. When you realize that you can decide who to let into your life and that you deserve all that life can offer you will be strong. Read empowering books and be around positive, uplifting friends that will not harm you. I really appreciated your email, you are the youngest reader to comment. Look around, there is tons of poetry here. Let the other women’s stories teach you what not to allow into your life.
May all your dreams come true Jessica. I have a sister named Jessica.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
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this poem is truly very amazing, even though i am only 14 i have had a recent ex who was abbusive not just phisicaly but mentaly as well. I was best friends with him for 5 years and with him for a year and 2 mounths. This poem also makes me think of my self wanting to excape but dosen’t know how slowly give up hope ina whisper. I have written poetry as well not just about me abbuse with him but also the melstation with my step sister as well and me going to rehab for a susidal atempt. It takes alot of guts just to write about it. This is very touching to me, i hope you post more.
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i understand were you are coming from….my brother hit me and hurt me for many years.
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OH MY GOD !!!!!! how could people do such a thing to young children.and how could they walk the streets thinking they keep on making a childs life a living hell . If they could do that to children there are really brave because at the end of the day they are going to get caught out sometime nearby. NHS appointments make abusers minds work over time thinking of accidental excuses.
That poem really touched me because how you put them brave words in it and you were making sure you gave them a punishment because you said how (you did it wrong now take the slap) you made sure they did a punishment alright ill pray tonight and tell him to give you love god bless the future . GIVE THESE CHILDREN A HAPPY FUTURE AND GIVE THEM CORAGE TO SPEAK OUT LOUD XXXX
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I WONDER WHY PEOPLE CHILD ABUSE I REALLY DO!!! what do sick minded child abusers think an feel when they walk the streets if they dont want children dont have them if there not strong enough.Have an abortion .or if your depressed see adoctor dont take it out on your children , it was your choice to bring them into world make their life worth while !!!
i think some one with great courage wrote this poem to make you think about what goes on behind closed doors it is a touching poem with great sensivity that brings tears to to my eyes.
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this is a powerful poem, and its true, i could only wish that it wasn’t. child abuse is wrong. i hope that some day it will end
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awwwww:(
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WOW… that really touched me to… it made me think how lucky i am not to be abused but live among and in a loving family(im still young)… i pray 4 all those who are being abused, i pray that God in heaven will send you love in some awesome way and that you will see the greatest love ever… bless you!
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my god…i understand cause this happened to me. and it is so painfully close to the truth. it is amazing.
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powerfull, thanks
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It is sooooooooooo sad yet sooooooooooooooo good
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Hi Rebecca, sorry i’ve taken so long in getting back to you, I will mail you some of my poetry to read. In the meadtime if you know of any events happening about Domestic Violence, i would love to here from you as i love to perform my poetryaswell, you can e-mail anytime on plummer_janet@yahoo.co.uk. Thanks and take care for now.
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Dear Janet,
I would love to read some of your poetry too. I appreciate the review on this poem, it is one that is close to my heart. Although my son was never physically harmed by his father, who abused me, I often imagined how it would have made him feel and that is why I told it from a young boy’s view.
Email me your poems to rburns1076@earthlink.net. I emailed you but it was rejected back to me.
Love & Peace,
Rebecca
http://www.rebeccaburns.com
http://www.dreamfocusedinc.com
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loved it!!!!!
I too write poetry from a different perspective and would love to share thes with you, the one i anm wiriting at the moment is about a girl who is being abused by her father when her mum is working late.
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I too write poetry about Doestic Abuse from other people’s views. Iam currently writing one about a child being abused by her father every night that her mum works late.
would this be possible to send this to you.
I thought hat this poem was sensational, it really hit home as to what Bobboy was going thruogh, i particularly like the 4 lines ‘ one step forwar two steps back etc.
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Thank you for your review, but the poem was actually something that I wrote and was happy to see that it did seem as if a child wrote it, that was the goal. Thank you.
Rebecca
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Correction: Oops, please forgive me.I read this while sleepy. I see now that this is *actually* a poem written by an abused child named Bobby. All the more poignant.
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Oh, this ripped through me like shards of glass leaving scars compelling us as individuals and as a society to take action against such abuse. Your poem is all the more effective since you chose to pen it through the eyes (and heart) of an abused child. A priceless child who will never measure up to the impossible/irrational “gold” standards of the abuser.
I’m an artist who devotes a chunk of my art (visual, verbal, and written) to Arts for Healing. I’ve bookmarked your site.
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