Every child who has witnessed domestic violence and abuse has a story to tell. The following poems are a part of my story. Although the accounts were written as an adult, the images of violence are forever etched in my mind. You never forget, nor do you ever forget your feelings about the situation. Eventually you learn to move on in life, but the mayhem will be with you until the day you die.

AFRAID OF THE DARK

I dread the night, the end of day,

for I know the dreams will come again.

In the light I feel safe,

the night has become my enemy.

In the corners of my room

I see faces, many expressions of evil,

lurking there night after night.

The demons are my own, no one sees them but me.

I cry out in vain, shutting my eyes tightly

hoping they will go away.

But they are increasing, getting stronger.

My pillow offers no comfort

as I cover my head, I struggle for air

wondering if I might die.

The shadows surround my bed,

laughing, laughing, laughing;

because I am afraid of the dark.

Yes, I am afraid.

Who will comfort me?

Only the Light, the Light of day.