The above photo and below description is part of the Rutherford County Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Center “These Hands - Hope and Healing," photographic journal project that showcases domestic violence and sexual assault survivors.
These Hands
"I am a survivor of domestic violence and child sexual abuse. This year I used these hands to write A Call for Help and I’m So Sorry."
- - -
Call for Help
"We were battered and abused
because my mother believed my father when he said,
I'm so sorry.
In 1920
when my mother was six
my grandmother
believed it, too.
In 1955
when I was six
my mother stopped
believing it.
Her willingness
}to Call for Help
destroyed the curses
of alcoholism and violence
and restored the blessings
of sobriety and peace."
- - -
I'm So Sorry
"Love indifference
Contempt regret
Where shame and guilt
Is what you get
Of all the lies
It’s a safe bet
I'm so sorry’s
The biggest yet"
- - -
About The Photo:
"By 1957 my mom and I were out of his reach and safe and sound. I was in the Cub Scouts when I made the plaster imprint of my hand. I gave it to my mom for her Mother’s Day gift. She loved it. It was a good day." - John Schmueser ©2017