“I Discovered.” by Dawn West

This poem tries to speak in the voice of a victim/survivor
(who made discoveries of self) in the aftermath of domestic violence. …

I discovered that the abuse really does matter,
that in the midst of the fury, I did NOT cause the storm.

I discovered that the name calling did NOT call out my real name.
Then, I discovered that I do NOT have to live in shame.

I discovered that no matter what he/she said (or did),
they had NO right to hurt me. …

I discovered that their actions caused tremendous pain;
it came with NEITHER true love, NOR any fruitful gain.

I discovered that wisdom not only comes with age,
(because) with my experiences, I AM the wisest sage!

I discovered that truth is a powerful, shining light,
to comfort the innocent, to ease their suffering plight.

I discovered that I AM stronger than I know;
I may have to “self-affirm” to remind myself so.

Then, I discovered that my love can’t change another—
that is a very important lesson for ANYONE to discover.....


My Poems: “Domestic Violence” and “I Discovered” are my book: My Poetry is a Window into My Soul, published in 2005 by Long Dash Publishing: www.longdash.com.  I've read them at various events.