Anyone subjected to control and shaming
Soon finds that themselves they’re too often blaming.
Living with someone who is quick to complain and sparse is with the compliments
Each and every hour,
Who showers you with constant belittlement and harsh words, causes a change and you become diminished, like a wilted flower.
This toxic environment makes you lose belief in your own innate ability,
And you cannot summon up the courage or strength to act with your former confidence and agility.
Trust in yourself must be regained and the process is gradual and slow,
Just like it was when you slowly lost it, so long ago.
But by fighting hard, you’ll regain your self-respect,
And once regained, nothing can shake it loose again and produce such a toxic effect.

By Ann Leyh