Red Robin

This is a poem I wrote for a National Bullying Prevention Month contest. Even though I have never experienced bullying myself, I know how disparaging its effects can be, and I hope someday it can be a thing of the past.

Crouched in the corner, cowering from fear,

The words hit me like spitfire; the scoffs and the leers,

There was no escape, no safe home or haven,

No place to run to when the light starts fading,

As I look up, preparing to look my bullet in the eye,

A red streak in the corner, swooping through the sky,

My mind flies with him; the robin ruby as the sun,

As the first fist hits me, I realize my bully has not won,

Blood oozes from my face, but I’m joyous with the realization,

Red plumage may adorn me, but he’s in a much worse situation,

My fear dissolves to pity, and I show him with a smile,

This armoured covering will show soft flesh, it might just take a while,

For behind those steely eyes and the permanent scowl he wears,

Is a helpless little boy, he just needs someone who cares,

My face is numb, my nose surely broken,

But I’m like a newborn robin, having just awoken,

With a fresh perspective, the tears well up in my eyes,

While I have a loving mother, no one hears my bully’s cries,

Exchanging words and showing understanding,

Nothing to stop me now from safely landing,

I bravely stand up, which is no small feat,

As I look him in the eyes, I know my bully I’ve beat,

I’d like to pass on, this burst of courage you need,

Towards my dream of no bullies, I’ve planted a seed,

We’ll stand up together, and banish the hate,

No cruelty just peace, courage will open the gate,

All the robins set free, from their cages of sorrow,

Together we’ll do it, work for a better tomorrow!