Last night was another nightmare for some kids. Today, isolation means the nightmare continues for many more trapped in a violent home with little or no food. My 100-word plea for help.

Image by Free-Photos from Pixabay

As I rise for school, the rumble in my belly returns. Sleep is my only solace from its oppressive squawk. Well, that and the school lunch I receive and relish. Just thinking about it makes me rush to the shower to get ready.

As I open my bedroom door, I almost trip over my mother on the floor. Her blackened eye reminds me of our peril. There won’t be any school or lunch today — nor will there be any relief from this misery.

I close the door and return to my bed. Hopefully, I’ll dream about food and not fights.

What You Can Do

Every day, four kids die from abuse or neglect in the United States. Are you or someone you know trapped in a domestic violence situation? Don’t hesitate, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline or text 1–800–799–7233. You could save a life!

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About Me

Stephen Dalton is a retired US Army First Sergeant with a degree in journalism from the University of Maryland and a Certified US English Chicago Manual of Style Editor. He is a freelance journalist currently living in the Philippines.

You can see his portfolio here. Email thewriteresults@yahoo.com

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