What’s the purpose, of being detached from my mother’s cervix?
soon as I touch the surface, I’m exposed to parental war.
Let my pencil draw pictures to better illustrate
feel quite scared, like being in real nightmares but still wake.
Shattered dinner plates- broken glass, emotions clash…
hoping dad and mom can form a truce.
I’m sensing me being born produced nothing but tension, between a couple
each encounter, the troubles just seem to double, with heated scuffles.
Father cheats on momma led to life of bitter hating
betrayal ignites a situation….causing spiteful actions.
Like trapping dad in all types of litigation
from child support, while forced to fight for visitation.
Getting older, I try to comprehend…
cry as drama sends me questioning if life’s purpose solely for supplying momma’s ends.
Feeling like a bastard child, hardly crack a smile
acting wild in school is how I choose to vent.
I’m confused and tense…
being target of custody battles got me losing sense, of what a family is.
Now mommy’s in a new relationship, so dad is truly hating this with a passion,
promises broken is a reflex action.
Sometimes I feel like a pawn in a chess game
maybe the best aim to deflect pain, is getting high to feel less strain.
Even as crazy as it seems, I’ll make a baby as a teen….
to compensate for all the constant hate.
Maybe then my folks will concentrate and notice rapidly
how within domestic wars, a child could gradually become a casualty.
For me to go on, something drastically has to change…
or expect a tragedy.
Analysis on "Collateral Damage"
While the term “Collateral Damage” is commonly used in the context of military operations, it can also be applied metaphorically to describe unintended harm or consequences in other scenarios as well. In the case of domestic disputes, this term highlights the impact on individuals, particularly children, who become unintentional victims of conflicts between adults. If you felt that verse was a pretty intense and traumatic journey to endure within the mind of one child, just imagine the emotional, psychological and even physical harm other children may be exposed to.
During domestic disputes, the focus should not be on determining who is right or wrong, but rather on understanding the potential impact on the well-being and state of mind of innocent children who are caught in the midst of the conflict. Children are highly perceptive and sensitive to the dynamics within their family environment. When they are exposed to ongoing arguments, tension, or hostility between their parents or caregivers, it can have detrimental effects on their emotional and psychological development. They may experience feelings of fear, anxiety, confusion, and a sense of instability. This can impact their academic performance, relationships, and future mental health.
When court orders regarding child support or visitation rights are involved, it is important to prioritize the well-being of the child and avoid using these systems as a means for vengeful acts or further damaging the family. Engaging in a contentious battle and using legal processes as a weapon can have long-lasting negative effects on the child and the overall family dynamic. It is crucial for parents to set aside their personal differences and focus on creating a positive co-parenting relationship that centers around the best interests of the child. This may involve open communication, compromise, and finding common ground for the sake of the child’s well-being.
This impasse will have potential risks and challenges that children may face as a result of difficult family situations. Factors such as domestic violence, and inconsistent or inadequate parenting can create an environment that is conducive to negative outcomes for children. Some children may exhibit behaviors or put themselves in extreme situations as a cry for help or as a way to cope with the challenges they are facing.
Growing up in such households can increase the likelihood of youth turning to drugs and alcohol as a way to cope with their difficult circumstances. Lack of positive role models and guidance may also contribute to their involvement in gangs as a search for a sense of belonging and protection. Furthermore, the emotional and psychological toll of dysfunctional households can lead to increased rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation among young people. Feelings of hopelessness, a lack of support, and exposure to ongoing conflicts can exacerbate these mental health challenges.
It is important to recognize the significance of these issues and take proactive measures to address them. Providing access to mental health resources, counseling services, and support groups can help children and adolescents navigate the challenges they face and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Schools, communities, and families play a crucial role in creating safe and nurturing environments where children feel valued, supported, and empowered.