It wasn’t my birthday or any other special day.

We had our first argument last night.

And he said a lot of cruel things that really hurt me.

I know he is sorry and didn’t mean the things he said.

Because he sent me flowers today.

I got flowers today.

It wasn’t our anniversary or any other special day.

Last night, he threw me into a wall and started to choke me.

It seemed like a nightmare.

I couldn’t believe that it was real.

I woke up this morning sore and bruised all over.

I know he must be sorry.

Because he sent me flowers today.

I got flowers today.

And it wasn’t Mother’s Day or any special day.

Last night he beat me up again.

And it was much worse than all the other times.

If I leave him what will I do?

How will I take care of my kids?

What about money?

I’m afraid of him and scared to leave.

But I know he must be sorry.

Because he sent me flowers today.

I got flowers today.

Today was a special day.

It was the day of my funeral.

Last night, he finally killed me.

He beat me to death.

If only I had gathered

Enough courage and strength to leave him.

I would not have gotten flowers today

by Paulette Kelly

Good luck to your friend.