Survivor stories take many forms—sometimes they are spoken, sometimes written, and sometimes they are expressed through poetry. The following poem, submitted anonymously, powerfully captures the complex emotions of surviving abuse and the lasting impact of being unheard.

Keys to a Lock

I lived with my mother, my sister, and my stepfather
I told her what happened
I spoke the truth
I told her what happened
I think she did not believe me

Instead she placed a lock on my bedroom
She gave me two keys
One for me
One for my sister.
In case he tried to come into our bedroom
Rather than getting rid of him
She tried to empower me
She tried to empower my sister
In some strange way.
I just did not understand.

Some experiences leave echoes that are hard to silence. The poet’s words take us into the heart of their journey:

I remember everything

I tried to talk
I tried to tell
I tried to be heard
Instead I was shut out
Instead I was silenced
I never again
Spoke up or
Spoke out
The internal rage was silenced
Momentarily
My body is in pain
My mind remembers everything
I remember everything.

This powerful poem sheds light on the invisible pain and silence that many survivors carry with them. The keys, meant to protect, represent the paradox of feeling both locked in and locked out. The poet’s journey reflects not only the trauma of being silenced but also the courage to remember, to face the truth even when it’s painful.

Though the doors may remain locked in our memories, the act of remembering is an act of reclaiming power. For many survivors, it’s a long road of healing, but every word spoken and every story shared brings us one step closer to breaking the silence.

If this story resonates with you or someone you know, remember that healing begins with being heard. There is strength in sharing our experiences, and there are people here to support you, listen to you, and stand by you. You are not alone.

By Nathan McGill

YouthBase and Community Practitioner