A True Story of Poetry and Pain

This book contains the true life story of Vanessa Crawford in the form of personal writings and poetry. This is a story of child abuse and neglect that started well before her generation was even born. You will learn of her Grandmother's ten children, how some were taken by the state and how she turned her back on her children and continued to let them be physically, emotionally and sexually abused. You will read on to find out about an incestuous marriage between her parents, a woman abuser and a whole new generation suffering from the effects of unstoppable rage and violence. Then when you think this family has endured enough there comes more pain with the deaths of two children, a father who looks the other way and a child who runs away and doesn't return home. The author then describes how her past was conflicting with her adulthood. It is then you will learn how child abuse and neglect has affected her ability to love others and to also love herself far after the abuse has stopped. Though, not flattering to herself, you will learn about her marriage at sixteen years of age, her emotionally challenged spouse and her path of self destruction that led to a series of affairs. She will share her pain, depression and insecurities that have haunted her internally for as long as can be remembered. The form of self expression and healing on the author's part is hoped to inspire others who have gone through similar situations.