Submitted to JCW by a brave survivor of incest.
—
Mommy?
Tatty?
Can you see me?
Can you see my pain?
I know you feel like I have torn the family apart
I know that my inability to ignore the past has made you face your limitations
I know how hard it must be to hear what your son did to his baby sister
It must be so painful for you
It must be so painful that you just can’t face it
It must be so painful that the truth no longer matters
That must be why you stand behind him
That must be why you can’t face me. Can’t support me
That must be why you blame me
I must be at fault because the alternative is unbearable
It must be too painful to see me.
I’m a constant reminder of your pain.
Of your failure as a parent to protect me.
I’m sorry that I shattered your picture-perfect family
I’m sorry that I let myself be broken
I’m sorry that I refuse to be silent
Maybe one day you will love me enough to admit you made a mistake
Maybe one day you will be able to see past your pain to acknowledge mine
Maybe one day you will think I am worth fighting for
I’m right here.
Waiting.
Hoping.
That one day
You will see me.
Love,
Your estranged daughter.