Battle Scars

Like the tears cried at night.
Like the screams heard through the pillow.
Like the sad face of an abused child.
Like the names said to a girl who wanted affection.
Like the bruise she tries to hide at work.
Like the razor the teenager pulls out when no one is home.
Like the blood that is stained on her school shirt.
Like the worn out shoes from when she had to get away that night.
Like the memories that stay with her.

Like the first time she fell in love.
Like the first time she had a real smile.
Like the cries that changed to laughs through the night.
Like the time she kissed a boy and wanted to.
Like the time everyone respected her.
Like the arm that doesn’t have to cover up.
Like the face she isn’t afraid to hide.
Like the heart full of love.
Like the friends she protects all the time.
Like the warm hug she gets from people who love her.