The Voice That Can’t Exist

I don’t know what I ever did

or how bad I could be, this age

to make you say what you say

to make you feel such rage

was it the glass of milk I dropped

or the veggies I failed to finish

could it be I go to bed too late

perhaps, the time you can’t replenish

when you smack me, does it help

did the burning bring you relief

can the scars and bruises be my choice

over your words that give me grief

would you please just run the water

place me in the tub, hold me down

I’ll do my best not to kick and scream

grown-ups will understand if I am found

’cause moms and dads must be the same

I see so many yelling without control

is every kid as bad as me

that simply has to take its toll

I promise, if I live long enough

that I can grant your wishes true

I’ll hold a gun to my own head

for your joy, the silence, too

’cause beatings always come and go

but the words you say remain

they cut sharper than your bladed eyes

hurts more than razor’s pain

Yet, something in me says it’s wrong

sounds like a voice that can’t exist

maybe soon I’ll have all my answers

one faithful day when I’m not missed