April is Child Abuse Prevention Month. This voice, among so many others, gives a small glimpse into the silent suffering that many never hear. During the month of April, give a listen.
“If …”
If only she didn’t have to work so much
If only there was not so much cleaning to do
If only I didn’t make so many messes
If only I obeyed better
If only I was not always so difficult
If only I didn’t create trouble
Maybe then it would all be OK
Maybe then she would be less mad
Maybe then she would yell less
Maybe she wouldn’t call me those words
Maybe then she wouldn’t hit me
If only …
— Written by a Kansas City teen
Judy Thompson
Associate director, Catholic Charities of Kansas City-St. Joseph
Kansas City
When I was 13 years old, my father hit me for the last time.
I waited until nightfall. I snuck out of my room and headed for the front door.
I didn't realize my father was getting a midnight snack.
He asked me "What do you think you're doing boy?" and followed it with "Sneaking out are you? That's three whips boy. Get over here.".
I replied "Goodbye, father.".
The police were helpful. I was sent to a very nice foster home. My father was arrested.
Sometimes, even though the churches say love your parents, love your husband, never leave, a time comes when you must put your religion aside for the life you know you have.
Often it isn't fear by religion, it's simply fear of the abusers.
Posted by: John Doe | July 27, 2009 at 02:16 AM