The poem "A Prison of Pain" tells the story of a woman's journey from an abusive marriage to freedom, self-love, and happiness.

A Prison of pain

ETHEL Z Bwalya

A marriage that suffocated, a love that was vain

He promised me the world, but delivered only fear

I walked on eggshells, never knowing when he'd appear

He told me I was worthless, that I was lucky to have him

That no one else would love me, that I was nothing but a whim

He hit me, pushed me, made me feel so small

I felt trapped, like I was living in a prison wall

But one day, something inside of me snapped

I realized I didn't have to live like that, I didn't have to be trapped

I started to make a plan, to save up and escape

To find a place to stay, to leave him and his hate

It wasn't easy, oh no, it was hard as can be

But I did it, and when I finally walked free

I felt like I was taking my first breath of air

I started to rebuild, to find myself again

To see that I was worthy of love, that I was strong and capable then

I met someone new, someone who loved me for me

Someone who showed me love doesn't have to hurt, it can be gentle and free

I learned a great lesson, that I am worthy of love

I don't have to settle for less, I deserve more

And now I'm happy, truly happy, forevermore

You deserve love, happiness, and a life that's not in vain

You are worthy of love, you are strong, and you are free.