Daniel Henry Rodgers Poet Free verse

Notes About The Poem

Crafting this poem was a journey, a battle against the ghosts of my past that spanned over a year of writing. As a survivor of child abuse inflicted by my alcoholic father, I bear scars that are etched deep into my soul. They are old wounds that occasionally bleed fresh tears, especially when I encounter a movie or documentary about child abuse.

------------------------------

Reflections of a Broken Mirror

In shadows deep where childhood fears reside
A father's wrath and a son's tormented life.
A torrent of abuse with a soul's despair
A question lingers heavy in the stale putrid air.

"Why was I not enough for my father's pride
Why did your love like fragile glass - subside?"
I searched within for flaws and faults unseen
A defective ugly child unworthy of your esteem.

Listen, to the wavering sound of your 
uncontrolled wrath. 
Like a thunderous lion roar untapped.
Your fists were like the 
mountains lightning's strikes
leaving me bloodied
broken and torn.
A distorted reflection in the 
broken mirror of your rage.
A son's plea echoing in the void 
seeking peace in a Biblical sage.

Each glancing blow was a cruel reminder of 
a love that took flight.
A question murmured in the still 
of the night 
a son's plea echoing silently.
The stars, like a voiceless jury 
bore witness to my endless fragility.
Their sparkling diamonds reflected 
the blackened tears that blurred my tranquility.

Against the wall 
against the floor, I fell
In a proverbial coffin of terror was a living hell.
Personified despair for my desperate plea.
But love remained elusive 
never free or for me.

How could I have been different? 
I pondered with sickening despair.
Would a change in my 
   .....essence 
have lightened the burden you 
......bear?
Your hands were never a source of 
...comfort 
became instruments of fear.
Their touch, a chilling memory of a love 
that just disappeared.

In Dante’s theater of death there is a tragic play.
Each act unfolds in shades of gray and disarray.
Anaphora echoes through the years
"Why, Father, did I provoke your ravaged fears?"

Yet, in the end, it was the silence that echoed the loudest,
Your life a fire extinguished by a disease 
most foul and foulest.
Yet, in the quiet of your passing 
no answers were bestowed.
Only the lingering question 
a heavy, burdensome load.

Up from past’s charred remains 
resilience took flight just like 
A phoenix reborn.
A new father to three daughters 
under God's watchful eyes.
From your dark shadows 
I emerged stronger and wiser.
A testament to resilience 
a survivor, a Christian riser.

In the end, I found the answer...
not in your silence but in their laughter.
In the love I offer and receive 
now and ever, and ever after.

For I am not the echo of your 
blind rage but the product
of my Godly choice.
In their smiles, I find my truth 
my answer is in their love for 
I found my voice.

As another teardrop falls 
a trauma survivor finds calmness 
just for today and hereafter.

Shadows deep where fears hide
Broken mirror reflects man's pride
Love’s absence and 
pain guides.

♡Like0

Share Poem

---

Post Comments

Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.

Please Login to post a comment

1 2

Anne Winter April 6, 2025 at 7:17 AM Dear Daniel, this poem captures the pain and all the scars of a trauma survivor. As someone who had to face abuse while growing up, this poem literally brought me to tears. I'm so sorry you went through that. I'm so proud of you for surviving. Anne Daniel Henry Rodgers April 9, 2025 at 6:13 AM Dear Anne, Thank you for your heart! It sounds like we were both victims of abuse. I know that I have worked through it years ago but it is sometimes still painful to think about parts of my childhood. It is always a pleasure to see your notes! Spring Blessings, My Dear Friend, Daniel

Karen Croft September 19, 2024 at 8:24 PM A very emotional poem full of pain, yet you've turned it into a beautiful beginning with your daughters that has shown how much you've risen from the past. Daniel Henry Rodgers September 23, 2024 at 7:05 AM Dear Karen, so wonderful and thankful to see you visit a past reality. Yes, I could not have asked for any better wife, 3 daughters, and now 3 granddaughters who bring so much joy into my life. My spirit is haunted every now and again, but it has risen to new heights. - Blessings, My Dear Friend, Daniel

Paul Callus July 29, 2024 at 9:09 AM This is such an expressive and touching poem, Daniel. The trauma of child abuse is never easy to deal with, but somehow you managed to rise from the depths and find love in a family of your own. Best regards // paul Daniel Henry Rodgers September 23, 2024 at 7:07 AM Dear Paul, I am sorry I missed your comments on my journey through abuse and I and thankful for your kind words and yes, my family fills my heart. Thank You! - Blessings, My Dear Friend, Daniel

Robert Gorelick March 11, 2024 at 9:47 AM Dear Daniel, your words are harsh yet sobering. I find that I deal with past trauma by looking at it as a twisted painful syndrome I was born into, a part I didn't want in a play written by a lunatic. Your sentiments reverberate with much resonance. Congratulations on a well-deserved trophy win! All my best, Robert Daniel Henry Rodgers March 11, 2024 at 9:58 AM Hello Robert, Thank you for your thoughtful reflection on my poem. I appreciate your perspective on dealing with past trauma, viewing it as an unwelcome part of a larger narrative. Your words are deeply felt, and I'm grateful for your acknowledgment of the sentiments expressed. Your support means a lot to me. I found being a healthy Trauma survivor (Took Years) is much better than being stuck. - Blessings, Daniel

Tonye George March 11, 2024 at 6:40 AM Oh my God Daniel, this is my Top 3 favourite. I was extremely drawn to every word, line and feeling. You have so much strength beyond human imagination and I'm so proud I could give you a hug. To think I have a similar piece, full day drafted. I just don't have the nerves to post, because unlike you, my wounds linger. I connected to every piece like I wrote it. Same questions I want to ask. I've waited everyday to forgive but there's no one asking. I loved this so much, so so much. My FAV. Daniel Henry Rodgers March 11, 2024 at 9:05 AM Dearest Tonye, Your heartfelt response to my poem touched me deeply. Knowing that my words touched you on such a profound level fills me with gratitude. Your vulnerability and honesty are truly admirable. Remember, posting your own piece is an act of courage and healing. Your words have power, and they deserve to be shared. Thank you for being so supportive, sharing your thoughts with me, and sending you a virtual hug. - Blessings, my friend, Daniel

Robert Sidwell March 7, 2024 at 10:57 AM A thoughtful, meaningful, well crafted poem to mirror a thoughtful, meaningful, well crafted life. It takes considerable effort and introspection to take pain and turn it into a learning experience to help others. Kudos Daniel Henry Rodgers March 7, 2024 at 4:26 PM Dear Robert, Your recognition of the depth and craftsmanship in my poem touches me deeply. Your words affirm the transformative power of introspection and empathy. Thank you for acknowledging the effort to turn pain into wisdom. Your encouragement is felt deeply and helps to fuel my poetry. Blessings, Daniel

Andrea Dietrich March 6, 2024 at 9:08 PM I am so glad you could take control of your own destiny after all that abuse. You are so resilient. Awesome trophy win Daniel Henry Rodgers March 7, 2024 at 5:57 AM Dearest Andrea, I am so grateful for the visit and the affirming comments. I am always appreciative of your words and enjoy your poetry tremendously. - Blessings, Daniel

Michelle Morris March 4, 2024 at 4:00 AM /2 Love and light to you and your family. May you witness through your daughters how you have transformed your family pain & suffering. Blessings & hugs. :-) Daniel Henry Rodgers March 7, 2024 at 5:55 AM Dearest Michelle, your heartfelt words touched me deeply. Thank you for your empathy and understanding of the emotions conveyed in my poem and Haiku. It means a lot to know that my story connected with you based on your own life experiences. Your encouragement and recognition of the importance of childhood kindness are truly appreciated. Your wishes for my family and me are incredibly touching, and I am grateful for your blessings and hugs. May we all continue to find healing and transformation in our journeys. With warm regards and gratitude, hugs and Blessings, Daniel."

Michelle Morris March 4, 2024 at 3:59 AM Thank you for sharing your story and this moving poem (and Haiku), Daniel. I feel your pain, confusion and heartbreak. And, I understand your journey because of my life experience. Childhood is a particularly fragile time for little hearts, minds and souls. They deserve warmth, kindness and encouragement. Please know that even though you did not receive an apology or closure, you have carved it out for yourself through your positive and beautiful life. /2

Richard Lamoureux March 3, 2024 at 7:25 AM You are telling my story. I recount it in my book “Dummy, Hurtful and Healing Words” My dad was also abusive and an alcoholic. He also died of lung cancer when he was only 53. If you have time, look up my poem “Eddie” and my other one “Between The Words of my Father” I suspect you will relate. Blessings to you. Daniel Henry Rodgers March 7, 2024 at 5:53 AM Dear Richard, your words deeply touched me. I'm grateful for your openness in sharing your story, and I'm touched to hear that my poem reflects aspects of your own journey. I'm truly sorry for the pain you've endured, and I admire your courage in writing about it in your book. I will definitely look up your poems and explore more of your work. Thank you for reaching out and connecting through our shared experiences. Sending you blessings and strength on your path. - Blessings, Daniel

Anisha Dutta February 29, 2024 at 7:29 AM It’s an extraordinary poem composed by you. Abusing child is a great offence beyond any forgiveness. You own a Great Soul, I admire. You also belong to a Great Profession as Trauma Counsellor. I don’t know how to stop child abusing from the society. So sad ! Innocent children are so helpless ! Daniel Henry Rodgers February 29, 2024 at 7:36 AM Dear Anisha, your heartfelt words truly touched me. Your empathy and compassion are evident. My trauma training and my God have helped me walk a path to health and I am always appreciative. It's heart-wrenching to witness the innocence of children violated. Together, we must continue raising awareness and advocating for their protection. Thank you again, my friend, and I appreciate your words! - Blessings, Daniel

Bj Legros Kelley February 26, 2024 at 11:37 PM Daniel, this was so well written, raw with the real emotion of a survivor. I had an incredibly difficult relationship with my mother, and I felt and battle the same emotions. Sometimes those feelings rise up in me, and I am so very blessed to know our Heavenly Father! I too sought explanation, and hopefully repentance, but it was not forthcoming. There is hope in the love of God though, and eternal life will surely find healing for His kids :) God bless you Daniel, it is nice to meet you. Daniel Henry Rodgers February 27, 2024 at 7:22 AM Dear Bi, Thank you for sharing your experience and for your kind words about my poem. It's incredibly moving to hear that you experienced similar emotions during your own difficult relationship. I'm so glad to hear how yours and my faith have provided comfort, hope, and strength. It's beautiful to find that connection, and the promise of healing for the future. It's lovely to meet you as well, and thank you for the blessing. - Blessings, Daniel

Unseeking Seeker February 23, 2024 at 6:17 AM In my view, it’s important to obtain release first by forgiveness and then by acceptance. Your journey certainly speaks of transcendence but the litmus test lies in the subconscious mind.Powerfully penned poem, Daniel. I see it is a trophy winner too ~ congratulations. Daniel Henry Rodgers February 23, 2024 at 6:39 AM Dearest US, your thoughtful words mean a lot. I especially appreciate you pointing out the subconscious aspect - it's a crucial layer to explore. Your insight is precious, and the "trophy winner" comment adds a delightful touch! - Blessings, my Friend. - Daniel

Bill Baker February 6, 2024 at 9:22 PM (continued) God changed their lives forever, after I walk the aisle and gave my life to Jesus. Years later, given three days at the most to live, he surrendered to full time ministry if God would heal him. Tumor disappeared when took into surgery. He kept his word and became a preacher. Lived 18 more years in ministry, then passed. A year after his miracle healing, I surrendered to full time service and was licensed to preach. I should have soup mailed this. Thank you for sharing. Bill Daniel Henry Rodgers February 8, 2024 at 4:03 PM Dear Bill, Your heartfelt response to my poem deeply moved me. It's comforting to know that my words related to you, even though they recount painful experiences. I'm touched by your own journey of overcoming abuse and finding peace in faith. Your story of redemption, from the darkness of abuse to the light of God's grace, is truly inspiring. It's incredible how God can work miracles in our lives and turn our pain into purpose. Your father's transformation and your subsequent calling to ministry are testaments to the power of faith and perseverance. Thank you for sharing your story with me, Bill. Your words have added depth and meaning to my own reflections. - Blessings, Daniel

Bill Baker February 6, 2024 at 9:16 PM A tragic telling of the life of abuse and the grace and healing of God. Well-written and well- deserved Trophy Poem, Daniel. My heartaches for the abuse you had to withstand and then grow through, my friend. I too experience an abusive relationship with my father. the beatings sound very familiar to me. By the grace of God, my sister and me were able to get my parents to return to church. It took a year of just dropping us off for the spirit to work on them. (Continued)

Paul Bell January 28, 2024 at 11:34 AM Not sure if you want your father to rot in hell or not. I suppose redemption comes in many forms. Glad your outlook in life is so positive now. Daniel Henry Rodgers January 28, 2024 at 2:15 PM Good Evening, Paul, You are right redemption does come in many different forms and I know that he will meet or has met his maker and it is God’s choice at this point and that is alright with me. Thanks for you comments. Blessings, Daniel

Beata Agustin January 25, 2024 at 5:51 AM Congrats! Thanks for sharing this, and for exposing to us your faith in the Lord Who can powerfully transform people. Thanks likewise for your uplifting comments. God bless you. Daniel Henry Rodgers January 25, 2024 at 6:03 AM Good Morning, Beata. It is always uplifting to hear from a fellow believer, knowing that all things are possible through the Lord. I do enjoy reading your poems for they lift my soul. - Blessings, Daniel

Paige Hind January 22, 2024 at 7:10 PM I don't know what you won, but congrats to you. You deserve it. Your poem was powerful and really moved me. Daniel Henry Rodgers January 22, 2024 at 7:29 PM Thank you Paige, this was in a Self Portrait contest. I appreciate your comments. ~ Blessings, Daniel

Nancy Kaufman January 22, 2024 at 8:17 AM Dear Daniel, I congratulate you who, with the help of your spiritual foundation, rose above what sounds like such a sad history of physical abuse. May God continue to bless you and your lovely family. No one other then God knows why innocents have to be exposed to others pain like this. I praise you for sharing this tragic, personal journey and it's positive outcome. Daniel Henry Rodgers January 22, 2024 at 6:04 PM Dear Nancy, your heartfelt comments touched me deeply. With the strength drawn from my spiritual foundation, I indeed rose above a challenging history of physical abuse. Your blessings for me and my family are sincerely appreciated. Thank you for acknowledging the positive outcome of this personal journey. Blessings, Daniel

Valsa George January 21, 2024 at 2:46 AM "In the end, I found the answer, not in your silence, but in their laughter, In the love I offer and receive, now and ever, and ever after." Reading this poem today has given me a new resilience. How you managed to sublimate the distress and despair you felt through the antagonistic behavior of your father into becoming another father proffering love on your children with the grace of the Lord. Instead of growing vengeful, you managed to hoard a lot of insights through the behavior of an abusive father! I am so touched by this poem. Congratulations on your trophy win dear poet friend ! Daniel Henry Rodgers January 21, 2024 at 9:30 AM Dear Valsa, your heartfelt comments on my poem deeply touched me. Your recognition of the resilience born from struggles and the transformation of pain into love means the world. Thank you for understanding the layers and emotions behind the verses. Blessings, Daniel

Duke Beaufort January 20, 2024 at 12:16 PM It's fantastic that you broke the chain. As an individual also subjected to abuse, I promised I would never hit my own children and never did. Abuse really does make us feel terrible or not feel at all. That's a bad way to start off in life, but it gives a lot of insights. I can understand anger people feel with much more empathy. I love that you are trying to change the world in a wonderful way. We need more people like you. I was supporting Marianne Williamson for president--also a therapist. Daniel Henry Rodgers January 20, 2024 at 2:45 PM Duke, I am honored that you read several of my poems. Your thoughtful comments touched me deeply. Your commitment to breaking the cycle of abuse mirrors my own journey, and I appreciate your shared perspective. The empathy you've gained from personal experiences is truly commendable. Thank you for recognizing the positive impact of striving to change the world. It's heartening to connect with individuals like you who appreciate the importance of empathy and positive transformation. - Blessings, Daniel

Speaks Volumes January 20, 2024 at 9:38 AM For a child to suffer so, saddens me, however the silence you had to maintain saddens me more. Not being able to make a plea for help, to let outsiders know the terrible truth. The inner anguish suffered being unloved, leaves so many more scars. Miracles happen and I am glad for the Grace of God you were able to overcome such a childhood, and become a loving father yourself. A sad poem, showing untold resilience. Accolades Daniel. from Wen Daniel Henry Rodgers January 20, 2024 at 2:42 PM Wen, your heartfelt acknowledgment of the pain in my child abuse poem touches me deeply. Your empathy for the silent suffering and the unspoken plea for help captures the essence of the untold anguish. I appreciate your recognition of resilience and the impact of overcoming such adversity. Your kind words and blessings are truly touching. God has always been a large part of my healing. Thank you for your empathetic comments and insights. Blessings, Daniel

Sotto Poet January 19, 2024 at 5:39 PM Forgiveness has no place in a society when children suffer as you have. My heart hurts for you. I'm glad to hear you've found serenity. This poem explores themes of grief, perseverance, and the ability to change love. Dynamic imagery, profound emotions, and an obvious path from tragedy to grace are the basis of a captivating tale. This process conveys the key ideas of human misery, salvation, and growth. Daniel Henry Rodgers January 20, 2024 at 2:38 PM Sotto, your heartfelt response to my poem touched me deeply. Your empathy for the suffering of children and acknowledgment of the journey from tragedy to grace resonate profoundly. I appreciate your recognition of the themes explored—grief, perseverance, and the transformative power of love. Your thoughtful comments have added depth and meaning to the essence of the poem. Thank you for your compassion and insight. - Blessings, Daniel

I Am Anaya January 17, 2024 at 12:21 PM A fine poet, a well-written and heart-wrenching testimony. You respect yourself when confess of the maltreatment of a child from their parent. “Reflections” is a masterpiece and should hang on your wall as you counsel and help others free themselves of the past. I’m glad Jesus shows you His way. You have stopped the “viscous cycle” I’m sorry your father never got help for himself for what his father did to him. I admire your brevity brilliant writing. Congratulations on your Trophy Win! I shall put this in my favorite treasures! Daniel Henry Rodgers January 18, 2024 at 9:33 AM I am deeply grateful for your thoughtful and heartfelt comments on my poem. Your words were truly touching, and I appreciate the time and consideration you put into sharing your insights. Your recognition of the importance of breaking free from the past and finding solace in Jesus's way means a lot. Your compassion and acknowledgment of the challenges in my writing are genuinely appreciated. Your perspective on the Bible's stance on child blessing versus abuse and your emphasis on love, common sense, and the importance of finding what works for each individual are valuable reminders. Sending love and healthy blessings to you as well. Thank you once again for your support and kindness. - Daniel I Am Anaya January 17, 2024 at 12:24 PM The Bible promotes child blessing, not child abuse. Children are abused and mistreated in several different ways, all of which are abhorrent to God. The Bible prohibits child abuse but the verses talk about using the rod for discipline. This could be confusing. Although Jesus is great therapy, not everyone is Christian but know love and have common sense about using alcohol and know there is "therapy" available. It’s what "works" for you that's what's important. Love & healthy blessings to you and yours!

Andrea Dietrich January 16, 2024 at 4:03 PM Incredible work, Daniel. I watch a LOT of movies and I have seen many depicting horrific abuse mainly of women and children. I am so sorry you fall into that category of abuse. But good for you getting out of the hole. Maybe your dad was abused too? It is a viscous cycle and thank God you have broken it. Congrats on your win. Was it for self portrait contest? Daniel Henry Rodgers January 16, 2024 at 6:24 PM Dear Andrea, Thank you for your heartfelt and empathetic words. Your understanding of the themes in my poem reflects a deep awareness of the harsh realities depicted. I appreciate your kind congratulations on my journey of overcoming adversity. Breaking the cycle is indeed a significant victory, and your encouragement reinforces the strength gained from such experiences. I did submit it to the self-portrait contest. Gratefully, Daniel

1 2