Lucky I guess (#yesallwomen)

[Jahaliel]

I'm lucky I guess...

I run out of fingers when I count the family members I know
That have been abused, emotionally, physically and sexually
And that doesn't include the friends I have - the ones who
Have died, have tried and somehow it's not the fault of the abuser???

I see stories in the news about killings and kidnappings
About women and children (and yes some men too)
But what makes me sad and horrifyingly mad is that
People say that its the fault of the victims

But I'm lucky, I guess...

I was sexually harassed from ages thirteen to seventeen
By a group of three popular boys and no-one took action
Except the one librarian who let me read in the back
And kicked them out whenever they tried to find me

I have been pressured for nudes
And asked my address, been paid unwanted “compliments”
Online while playing Minecraft - but I just don’t play on those servers
Anymore because I couldn’t remember the names to report

I have lost two men that I considered friends
Told it was my fault, they just wanted a kiss, a date,
Because they wanted to be in a relationship
Even though I was dating my husband at the time

But I’m lucky I guess…


(a/n a revised version of something I wrote for the #yesallwomen tag that trended on twitter and tumblr)

[ladylynnmary]

Dearest Jahliel, this is heartbreaking. I was abused myself so I could really identify with this. How are you coping now?
I know it is not something you cannot forget, but if you ever want a friend to talk to I am here.

Much Love,
Lynn

[bandgeekfreak]

I agree with this piece completely, it's so sad and angry and heartbreaking but true. Wonderful piece, I love the message.

[dwells]

Hi Jah and so good to see the living legend returned to us!
This was a sorrowful piece that I'm sure reflects many cultural differences in what is basically a man's world, and will remain so into the near future anyway. Maybe when women rule there will be no wars and the crimes will fit the punishment; without the guilt trips that society tends to bestow on the victims as you mention here. A strongly stated if sorrowful piece, cheers!

[ladylilith]

I love the repetition in this, that one line that resounds. It works when said in different ways too which I think is smart. For me you capture something of the divide that is still present, or more, the silent acceptance that occurs when things happen. Also, you recreate a scenario that I think many women (and possibly men too) can readily relate to. That thing that sadly, often men will cross that 'friend' barrier adn refuse to go back again. Like, 'oh, you don't want to have sex with me? Well, I don't want to be your friend now either. Buh-bye'

Am I making sense? Lols.

This really resonated with me Jah. Great work! Honest, rightfully angry, but also moving too. Thanks for sharing it!

Lily^^

[Pride Ed]

Heartbreaking! All the crap we have to deal with!

This poem makes me think about the "friend-zone."
What a stupid label!


Excellent poem.

[digitalbath]

I enjoy the angry and sad emotions behind this poem. It feels a little too conversational and to-the-point for my tastes, personally. I'd love to read more metaphors. But then again, I would not know how to properly approach this subject matter because I have never been a victim of abuse.