Surviving

Abuse

Thriving

despite it

Because Hope held my hand

Pushing me

On the swing so I would pump harder and higher

Feeling free

     she encouraged dreams

dreams that carried me to the Olympics

to the stage

to academic achievement

and Hope led me by the hand

showing me Love

observed

in others.

Wrapping me in a soft blanket

Hope whispered

You can do this… and this … and this.

         Hope snuggled deep inside

always

re-emerging

when I forgot to swing

And feel the wind

As I scan

Backward

I thought Hope had left me

But I see she didn’t leave

I just need to swing and dream new dreams