No More

I lay awake in bed last night
Listening to the noises;
The slamming doors,
The shattering glass,
The angry shouting voices,
My silent anguish.

I remember clearly when I was young
Several years ago.
I used to lie awake in bed each night
Huddled under the sheets
Too scared to sleep,
Too distressed to cry,
Waiting... listening...
For the footsteps coming up the hall.

I'd stiffen as she entered the room
Bracing myself against the blows,
Hardening against her words.
She'd hit me and hurt me,
Physically and emotionally.

I never flinched as the blows rained down,
Swallowed back the metallic taste in my mouth.
And, like a shadow, she'd leave me alone
Bruised, bleeding, but not in tears.
I was too young to know better,
I thought it was all my fault.

But tomorrow I'll listen for your footsteps
And I'll stand up tall and straight
'Cos guess what, Mama
I'm a big girl now,
And I ain't gonna let you hurt me no more.