She wanted a home,

a family of her own.

She stayed quiet to protect his feelings,

While he stomped on hers.

Love was promised,

but control was given.

Change was promised,

but a punch was given.

She learned to read the room —

and drowned in fear,

She learned to read his bloodshot eyes —

and drowned in chills.

At times she raised her voice,

she wanted to be heard.

Eventually she shrunk,

She did not feel enough.

A bruised eye, a broken window,

A shattered heart,

A million tears.

A million tries,

for her to leave.

An achy heart,

awaited grief.

Words cut deeper

than any wound the body could show.

At last an act of love,

She had enough.

It took 9 years,

the proof is here.

The bruises and blows

do not win.

Every morning she shines,

while carrying the straight of survival.

and the courage to say,

I am more than what was done to me.