The following poem was submitted to meet the requirements of an 11th grade English assignment. The assignment proved to be an outlet for a special person who showed her caring for others in many ways. In 1991 Jennifer Beach had encountered a situation that touched upon one of life’s tragedies, child abuse. Upon noticing a young girl that had apparent signs of abuse Jennifer contacted the authorities but was told that nothing could be done unless the abuser was caught “in the act” or that there had to be more evidence provided than mere marks and bruises. Unable to deliver any further evidence of the crime she was forced to live with the frustration of not being able to help beyond watching and wondering what else might be going behind closed doors. The assignment provided an outlet for this frustration.

Not very long after Jennifer wrote this poem she lost her life in a car accident. She was a kind and giving seventeen year old that often looked for ways to help others. Her family has decided to publish this poem with two purposes in mind. First of all, there is a hope that the poem may touch someone who might be involved or close to the type of situation addressed. If the words here help that person to make a difference in their or another persons life then no greater reward could be achieved. Secondly, there is hope that the distribution of this poem may raise funds to help organizations that deal first hand with child abuse and domestic violence victims, as well as other benevolent causes.

Please see the opportunity form for instructions on how to obtain additional copies of the poem in booklet form or to make donations.

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