I wrote this poem in February 2024, and like others, it was written in the form of a song simply because I like the idea of a refrain and verses together. The poem as with others over the previous couple of years, is inspired by those who I have met and supported and who demonstrate so much strength in the face of real adversity, abuse and violence by choosing freedom.
Refrain
I made a choice; Now I am free
I’ve left you behind; you are history
I’m moving forward on my own
With a better life than I’ve ever known
Verses
I loved you once before I knew you
I was blind and could not see through
You took control and I did follow
I gave it all and more, until I was hollow
I was shocked when you first struck me
I felt so lost and like a piece of debris
You promised change and to give your love
Then turned around and gave me a shove
I tried and tried to be a better wife
To make you happy and to have a life
But it became clear that I was nothing
I was trying but you were just bluffing
So now I’ve left you and am safe at last
You’re no longer with me; you’re in the past
It took me courage to leave it all behind
Am now leaning forward with peace of mind
I’ve found myself and I am strong
I’ve written this story as a resilience song
I know who I am and I’ll find my true love
My angel’s watching from heaven above