The Battle

If I told you I understood the workings of this world – I would have to lie.
I however, know sexual abuse is never ok regardless of lame reasons why.
The one being raped for a short time dies in the act.
No need for exaggeration, I know it personally to be fact.
Being sexually violated is one of the worst things that can happen.
Your life is changed forever by one moment you never thought could happen.
For the sake of progress, we have bought the lie that these things happen by choice.
Tell me, how this is true, when a seven year old being molested is told they have no voice?
Our struggles are what make us family.
Our differences are what make us heavenly.
When the lights come on I pray my nerves stay in tact.
May I stop running and realize I had no fault in the act. In the “Good” book they introduce you by your father.
Identifying both your past and future. When you see me please know I am more than just the daughter of Lovell.
I am that girl who squared up with “Sexual Abuse”, the darkness of Hell.

By: Latoya Francis Date: April 18, 2014

Yahweh be praised! "The Battle" won 3rd place in the ESRF Shout Out! Poetry Contest in recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM). It will be printed and on display at The Crescent, Camana Bay on April 26, 2013.