The memories of the beatings I had as a boy
stripped of the things that gave me some joy
my heart broke the day I saw my mother cry
long gone are the days of me asking her why.
The marks and bruises I've had across my skin
I was forced to hold my anger from deep within
so many times I've tried to let go of the hurt
but the man took away my esteem & my worth.
I was a young boy when he caused me pain
for so many years, I looked at him with shame
the beatings I've had for protecting my mom
all of a sudden, he wants me to remain calm.
He caused me a lifetime of heartaches today
I dismissed the things that he wanted to say
denying him access to my happiness & peace
by writing these words, I'm hoping to release.




© Josiah Bhola Hillaire