Today’s post was inspired by the current media discussion of violence against women following allegations against former CBC broadcaster Jian Ghomeshi. A question I saw earlier today asked, “How many women must speak out to equal the voice of one man?”
The room is dark
suffocating dark
Panic inducing lack of light despite sunny skies
autumn colors outdoors
It is a race to that safe place
before the spark is completely snuffed
before the dark becomes
consuming
overwhelming
overtaking all
A tiny haven awaits
sanctuary of sacred flame
buried deep within
pathway hidden
Alarm signals shrieking!
All senses on high alert!
Survival systems kick into high gear
“Do not let the flame be doused. Hold on to the light
at all costs”
Watching events unfold
as from a distance
Denial
Detachment
Betrayal
Trust is broken
cleaved into pieces by a
swift action
Shattered
Shards vibrating
Questioning
Why is this happening?
How can this be happening?
Violence
Heaving
Quiet
It has stopped
Darkness is all around
Blinded by emotion
quivering
fatigue
shame
It has stopped
But the journey
to recapture the flame
has just begun
It is buried deep
protected
A silent tear escapes
ScribbleDartsfromtheHeart 
Dear Mary,
How sensitive of you to speak for the countless women who walk into the arms of violence. And then leave, spirits broken and esteem taken.
Too many of us have experienced this damage, sometimes it take a lifetime to overcome.
We must not allow this abuse to continue. Tell someone! Teach our daughters, our sisters that they have value. We must believe it ourselves as well.
Linda
Thanks for your comment, Linda. I am so proud of Reva Seth and Lucy De Coutere for having the courage to come forward and share their story. I agree that we must believe we are worth it. No woman deserves to suffer violence at the hands of man – for any reason.
This is truly such an amazingly powerful piece. I honestly believe that you have put into words the embedded torment that so many have faced as a result of the evil of others. Truly amazing.
Thank-you!
I agree with Linda and with you, Mary, wholeheartedly!