A child should never have to carry the burden of secrets. The words “don’t tell” from an adult to a child indicate an issue, short of a surprise party but in that case, you should know better than to tell them anyways.
Even as an adult, especially a young one, the words don’t tell from a parent to a child can cause destruction that ripples far past just that interaction and well into the infrastructure of the family. I’m still scared to tell, scared to use my voice. Anytime I try, to tell the truth, my truth, come out of hiding – explosions. I’m starting to accept that maybe some things just need to be blown to bits so I can rebuild. So for now, some truth.
Don’t Tell
When you tell me
to keep secrets
from mom
I trust myself less
I trust you less
you trust her less
she doesn’t know it
but she trusts you less
connections destroyed
everywhere I turn
when you tell me
“Don’t tell your mother,
she’ll leave me
and I don’t know
what I would do”
Your fear
infiltrated
my life
this is me
telling it goodbye
even if you
choose its side
Much love, until next time.
Madeline May I... 