I was dragged down like a stone
Deep into an ocean full of horror
And kept a prisoner of other’s wants.
But I bounced back up again, no error.

I was punched and bullied into a pulp
Humiliated into silent self-loathing
And kept down in the mud like a dog.
But as always I bounced back again.

I was buried inside a family of murderers
Who wanted revenge for things I did not do,
And used the excuse of ignorance, so sly!
But I would not lie down, I bounced back.

I was seduced to have sex by my sister
Who kissed my lips when I was only thirteen,
I learned much about her warped desires
And became attracted to cold looking women.

I was crushed under the feet of teachers
Who enjoyed hitting little boys bottoms.
I had to keep smiling so no one would know.
But I bounced back again, sometimes smiling.

I was deserted by reason and was tortured
And denied the pleasure of being touched;
For decades I lived in a desert of thorns.
But, as usual, I bounced back again in tears.

I was used by people who laugh behind masks,
who destroyed my reputation and honour
For their own amusement and fulfilment.
But did I bounce back again, cold faced?

I am prepared for any assault on my person
For I have learned about abuse at first hand
Never will I stand and take the blows again,
Can I say for sure that I bounced back again?