#SexualViolenceAwarenessMonth

So today I'm cheating a bit. This isn't my usual style of poetry (believe it or not, I'm working on my poetic voice), but this is a cause close to my heart. I also work for an organization that supports victims. And it is sexual violence awareness month. It's more prevalent than most people expect, and the idealist in me is working for a world in which it doesn't happen.

To the victims:                                                To the perpetrators:

You are not to blame.                                     It was totally your fault.

You are not dirty.                                            You should feel dirty.

You are not shameful.                                    You should be ashamed.

You are beautiful.                                            Apologize.

You are strong.                                               Make reparations.

You are loved.                                                 Be humble.

You are supported.                                         Get counseling.

You are heard.                                                Stop bragging.

You are believed.                                            Stop lying

You are healing.                                              Or you will be damaged forever.

NaPoWriMo 2017

I am excited to be attempting poetry again. Hopefully this year will go well.

Last year, I had just started a new job on March 28th, so writing a poem while still teaching three courses was a bit overwhelming. This year, I've got a year under my belt at the job, and I'm only teaching one course.

My job is at a domestic abuse and sexual violence organization. I run the thrift store that supplies a chunk of the money keeping the shelter doors open and the programs running. I also spend a lot of time with clients during their time shopping.

I've been playing with ideas of new lives, violence, family and so on. Let's see what makes it into the poetry. Of course, I may resort to 30 days of haiku! Good luck everyone! Let the poetry writing begin!