I remember a time when parents,
could beat on their kids at will.
There was no one to help them,
and many were painfully killed.
I remember sitting at my table,
Told to eat it or not to move,
Falling asleep in my dinner of broccoli,
Cuz my dad had power to prove.
My mom was so unhappy,
Stuck at home with my sisters and me
She wanted to help those who were hurting,
But a nurse she was not allowed to be.
I remember kids appearing happy,
A result of seen but not heard.
I remember having no choices,
Frustrations a child endured.
Your dad had all the power.
Your illnesses hidden from all.
Drinking to ease all the sadness.
Because there were no helplines to call.
The old days were not all of that good .
A far way from where we have come.
I wouldn't go back to that fantasy,
Not sure anyone with half a brain would .
By Teena Vaughn D'Annibale
