The "tender" Years

At first they were happy, making a home
but then his true cruelty began to show
and of his violence, she bore the burden
in silence, so no one would ever know.
Some call it "domestic", but it is far more.
Bigger people have no elemental power
just because they are stronger, or louder
than the people over whom they tower.
She has learnt there is no real distinction
between physical cruelty and emotional.
One leaves a bruise more readily seen.
Both scar and there equally intolerable.
Cowering no more, she'll expect no more abuse.
Emotionally impoverished far too long,
now she knows there is never an excuse for bulling
just because one is strong.
His mouth opens, poised to strike in venom.
She responds with a glance of disdain,
then walks through the door one last time.
Empowered, she wont forgive him again.
From the friend she'd always trusted, its tragic that she learnt this harsh lesson.
Remembered, it will see her in good stead, as she grows past her tender age of seven.