she never beat me black and blue
just made sure i knew discipline
was the back of her hand, the width
of a belt, a smirk on her face as if
she became a righteous being when
her palm turned my cheek.

my tears turn into to holy water
burning their way down swollen cheeks
she doesn't like it when i cry says
shining eyes are a sign of selfishness, says
i should be your everything, i give you
everything, why can't you give me peace?