Poetry: Abuse

Locked in a cage that she believed was home
She didn't understand why they all cried
For her.

Yes, her arms were broken, swollen, and worn
But that's just how it was
Can't tell her why it's wrong.

Locked to wall, yeah he's on a leash
But it's not wrong, it's just his daddy's thing
To him.

Yes, his legs were broken, tied, and dead
But that's just how it was
Can't tell him to be sad.

These people are all living pain
But they don't understand a single thing
These people don't cry at night
Last time they didn't put a fight...
Not them.

Don't you go going calling them names.
They ain't, oh they ain't masochists.
Living their realities is not a breeze
So ignoring what their brain says is wrong (does it?)
They accept their punishment.

They were never told of any other way
This is life, this is home, this is their reality.
And if you tried to take them away,
More than a few curse words they'd say.

Their dad's love is unique.
Their mom's just having a bad day.
Aunt said it's normal.
Brother went through it.
This is a sign of strength.
What are they if not this?
How can their reality be wrong?
It's what they know.
It's what they've experienced.

When it's over,
When they're bleeding, broken...
They look up
And see happiness
Therefore...
Isn't this good?
Isn't this right?
Why would they smile and...
If it wasn't?
Therefore...
Therefore...
Doesn't it have to be?
Right, I mean.
Not sick.
Not horrible.

They are told they are loved.
They bring joy.
Why would they be lied to?
Don't take them away.
They want to bring happiness.
They can.
Therefore
They will.

She won't cry, locked in a cage.
He won't be bitter, tied to a leash.
This is home.