​Mama

Mama,

you told me what happened to you—

that I was a happy child,

funny,

full of life.

You asked me why I am so miserable now.

How I could say “I have nothing to live for.”

How I could ask, “What’s the point?”

Oh mama,

do you really want to know?

Mama, he stole my childhood.

Mama, he hurt me.

And when I try to remember being small,

all I see

is him.

Mama, I can’t breathe with this pain

pressed inside my chest.

Please don’t blame me, mama.

I didn’t choose this.

Why didn’t you protect me, mama?

Help me.

Hold me.

I’m still your baby.

Don’t hate me, please.

I didn’t want this.

I don’t want to be like this.

I’m sorry—

I’m really sorry.

You said you don’t recognize me anymore.

But mama,

I am still your child.

I am still your baby.