This week we continue to feature the Tarot cards – Major Arcana – the card of the week – Justice.
‘You’re pathetic,’ they screamed
‘You claim to be the victim?
Where is your evidence?
The scars?
The bruises?
I claim you are lying
Fabricating the story
Seeking attention
I see no blood, no injury.’
Is it not enough to look into my face?
Can you not see the pain, the turmoil?
Why do I have to validate myself?
Why can you not believe me when I say
I have been abused, bashed and laid bare?
I have harboured secrets
Tormented myself
Maintained your silence
Allowed my shame dominance.
My story has been ridiculed
Battered
Denied
Rejected.
They look like you and me
Their heart beats as does yours
But their minds are ill
Diseased and predatory
They seek you out
Rip out your soul
Destroy you, waste you
Till you are as nothing
Emotionally discarded.
Justice is within your soul
Revelations cleansing
The secret defied
Oppressors confronted.
As a beacon to so many
You look the abomination
Governing your being
Squarely in the eye
Swearing never again.
Written for: https://mindlovemiserysmenagerie.wordpress.com/2016/04/24/writing-prompt-april-24-2016-scales/
Morpethroad 
I claim you are lying/Fabricating the story/Seeking attention . . . I have harboured secrets/ Tormented myself . . . My story ridiculed . . .They seek you out/Rip out your soul/Destroy you, waste you . . .
“There is a lot more written here I could cut and paste, and damn — I know those words. Trivial is another one,” she said.
“I admire your bravery and honesty and that you have looked your abomination squarely in the eye, and have said never again.” She sniffled, feeling the first tear and her snotty nose.
“You and your words will act as a beacon. So that others know they are not alone. That is a noble thing, if you don’t mind me saying,” she finished. “Crying again.”
This is…insightful…passionate…compassionate. The feelings in this piece run deep.
This is a very moving and powerful piece Michael. Thank you for sharing in the prompt.
You have captured “the story” from beginning, middle and end – without naming a specific type of abuse, because at the heart of it – the essence is the same. And what it is most appreciative and understanding, that ultimately, justice does lie within the soul and spirit. Although it seems completely “unfair” to have to “do the work for oneself” (of course, I’m speaking from a more broadly philosophical point of view) the truth of setting oneself free, is simply that – a universal truth. It lies within each and every one.
I have become aware in recent times of people disputing claims of abuse because they don’t see the injury or detail the physical abuse. ( I recently wrote an article about a male perspective on abuse and received such a comment). But your point is very valid in as I say freedom, resolution so often comes from within us and isn’t dependent on anyone elses validation.
People who expect to see physical damage and discard the emotional, mental, spiritual and psychological tool abuse takes on a person, regardless of gender – just don’t get it. (I could comment further, but I’ll just bite my tongue regarding this thought.)
As for gender bias? Oh, as you well know, abuse is often thought of as the sole domain of men inflicting …. but it’s not the case. Unfortunately there are far too many cases where men are the victims, at the hands of women, even physically, that never go reported, as I’m sure you know – and for a man to suggest he has been victimized by a woman (the honest kind of truth offered) – is sadly, considered a weakness. Thankfully things are changing, there is more openness and discussion and accountability for the reality. It doesn’t make it the healing process easier, other than now, more than ever, at least people are aware that there are resources available to help.
I sent you a link to my article. Thanks Pat for weighing in on this discussion, your informed comments are always appreciated and valued.
Thanks for sending the link Michael 🙂
I’ll be more than happy to read.