Domestic Violence Awareness -- "I Got Flowers Today" - Poem

(Dedicated to Battered Women)

I got flowers today!

It wasn't my birthday or any other special day. We had our first argument last night; He said a lot of cruel things that really hurt; I know that he is sorry and didn't mean to say the things he said; Because he sent me flowers today.

I got flowers today.

It wasn't our anniversary or any other special day. Last night, he threw me into a wall and started to choke me. It seemed like a nightmare. I couldn't believe that it was real. I woke up this morning sore and bruised all over. I know he must be sorry. Because he sent me flowers today.

I got flowers today!

It wasn't our anniversary or any other special day; Last night he threw me into a wall and then started choking me; It seemed unreal, a nightmare, but you wake up from nightmares; And I woke up this morning sore and bruised all over—but I know he is sorry; Because he sent me flowers today.

I got flowers today!

And it wasn't Valentines Day or any other special day; Last night he beat me and threatened to kill me; Make-up and long sleeves didn't hide the cuts and bruises this time; I couldn't go to work today because I didn't want anyone to know—but I know he’s sorry; Because he sent me flowers today.

I got flowers today! And it wasn't Mother’s Day or any other special day; Last night he beat me again, and it was much worse than all of the other times;

If I leave him, what will I do?

 How will I take care of the kids? What about money? I’m afraid of him, but I’m too scared and dependent to leave him!

But he must be sorry; Because he sent me flowers today.

I got flowers today….

Today was a special day — it was the day of my funeral; Last night he killed me; If only I would have gathered the courage and strength to leave him; I could have received help from the Women’s Shelter, but I didn't ask for their help;

So I got flowers today—for the last time.

- Author Unknown -

Poem Source - Domestic Violence Angels on Facebook

Being a Survivor, I know the feelings that you go through when your being abused. It comes out of no where and even though that person just hurt you, they've been your "right-hand man" for years! Alot of times it takes alot for a woman to hit her breaking point. We can handle alot and we know what Love and Hatred looks like... We're not stupid, we're just scared, lost and alone. Most people ,who are being abused, just need someone who truly cares about them and shows that love on a daily basis. This person can be a friend, parent, family member... As long as she can trust someone and see that she is loved and needed in this world, She will Survive!

RIP Richard "Hank" Edwards

Dear Hank,

  I said good-bye today and it truly broke my heart. I know we will see each other again but we'll be missing you until then. I touched your chest and broke into tears... i didn't know what to say to your dad and seeing Dotty so hurt, made me break down. Yall were perfect together, brought out the best in each other. the perfect match for the perfect people. They say that the best die young but I don't understand why. Why can't the best thrive to be even better? Why take such a young life?

I was only able to go to the viewing and I hate that I am going to miss the funeral. alot of your friends are going to do "donuts" Hot-rods in your memory! I bet your looking down on us, very proud to see everyone who loves you. The funeral home was packed! People just kept coming! Everyone is going to miss you!

Dustin is taking it pretty hard. You and him were very close and we all wish we would of had more time with you. I've rose Duder out of a depression slum before and I am ready to do it again. It's going to be tough but we will get through it.

Jeff also came. He broke down and cried. We had some good times together. I'm thinking about asking Jeff if he wants to go walk to that abandoned house with me soon and see if we can sit on the porch and remember old times. The porch that we ran from.... Through the woods and Jeff landed in a hole... You and I stopped and you made sure I was safe. I wasn't scared, you and Jeff were there to protect me if anything went wrong. I miss those days.

I remember you hanging out in the "hood" with all of us. Dustin, Dotty, Mom and Pops, Butters and the rest of the Enka crew..... We had some wonderful times. I saw April and Zeke, Nicole and Misha. Butters and Rosco, Brandon and Melody. Everyone showed up to pay their respects. And I mean EVERYONE!!

Don't worry about Dotty, we'll take care of her. She's a strong girl and has lots of loving people around her. I also know that not only are your watching down on her... Mom and Pops are too! Yall keep watch from Heaven and I'll keep watch from Earth. I won't let her fall and I won't let Dustin fall either. 

You have my word! 

You lived a great life! You were happily married to the woman of your dreams, had wonderful friends and always kept your head up. Never angry for too long. I don't remember seeing you mad at all! Down to earth and quiet. As sweet as a teddy bear! We love you more than you will ever know!

Hank... You will forever be missed and remembered in our hearts and memories!

It's your turn to relax.... We will see you again one day!

RIP Richard "Hank" Edwards

Love always,
Your Friend Autumn



The above words are my own feelings and memories of a lost friend. Some of the names used in the writing are real life Nick-names while the real names are in the obituary at the top.