if it had been punches instead of words

The following content contains references and written images of domestic violence and sexual assault. 

maybe one hit would have made the words land softer, make them stop, if it had been punches instead of just words

maybe one slap across the face would have been enough to put me in my place to know what words to say so my existence could shrink enough for you, if it had been punches instead of words

maybe a whack would have made me snap back to a reality in which i don’t exist, just the me you wish i would be, if it had been punches instead of words

maybe one bruise on my arm would have helped you to see just how much you were abusing me, if it had been punches instead of words

maybe a handprint leaving a stain long after the pain subsided would aid you to refrain, if it had been punches instead of words

maybe a broken bone would help inspire you to provide a better home, if it had been punches instead of words

maybe the tone of a line, realizing you don’t have more time, would stop you from raping my mind, if it had been punches instead of words 

If you are looking for resources, the YCP Title IX Office can be found through https://www.ycp.edu/about-us/offices-and-departments/human-resources/title-ix/ and the YWCA can be reached through https://www.ywcayork.org/what-were-doing/victim-services/.