Machete
carving knife
Samurai sword

familiar
weapons of
abusive lord

whose black heart
and iron fist
crush innocence

by slicing
away at
hope, confidence.


Let not such
rage, grown full
from inner ache,

deceive you;
nor touch, tears,
for love mistake.

The one who
would subdue,
overpower,

must be dealt
a blow and
needs to cower.


First things first:
get out – run;
don’t hesitate.

Don’t think you
can save him,
say it’s too late.

You cannot
wait until
abuse abates.

Go. Go now;
Safe shelter,
comfort awaits.


You love him –
if so, you’ll
give him this gift.

If setting
this limit
creates a rift,

so be it.
You – your life
matter far more

than “love” that
coexists
with blood and gore.