I never knew how bad it was.
I heard it did exist.
I was appalled at this crime.
That robbed youth or their "special time"

I never knew how bad it hurt
The bruises and scars aren't seen
And why somewhere along life's way
The brutality of abuse
Has made you pay

I never knew how you felt
Your self-esteem so low
I only knew you crept away
And never let your feelings show

I never knew what I could do
That I could help somehow
That all you needed was a friend
Just someone to be your pal

But now that I could help
I can make a difference, too
I'll stand with you I'll shout with you
And the rest can't say "I never knew"
-Cindy M. Adams