The Red Ribbon

As you entered an unknown harrowing time where learning to survive was what consumed your everyday – I saw you both and I felt helpless that I could only listen to your story, but I was also hopeful.  With every bit of anguish, aspirations that were stomped on, harsh words, abuse and longing for home, for the haven life used to be, my only hope was that you would be safe with no lasting mental or physical scars.