Sour Painting

Dear Pat, You left a sour taste in our mouths. You fed us rancid fruit, dipped it in sugar, and told us it was sweet. We protested, but you convinced us it was safe. And we believed you. You told us that you know what’s best. You did it all for us, for our benefit, our protection, for the betterment of everyone. And while our hearts broke into a million pieces, over the loss of our sisters and mothers, you turned your back on us. Like you have many times before. But this time, we’re paying attention. This time we’re fighting for our voices to be heard. That sour taste in our mouths has become more than just unpleasant. It’s become a reminder that we must fight. That we must ask for more. That we have a right to the sweet fruit. Xo T ________________ The Enough is Enough collection features stories about betrayal, manipulation, abuse, control and a lack of rights for women. Inspired by the current state of affairs in the USA after the overturning of Roe vs. Wade in which men are once again making decisions for women and their bodies in order to keep minorities controlled and silenced - this type of manipulation and abuse is something that women, the trans community and other minorities have experienced in the home for years. Disguising the criminalization of abortion as a pro-life decision is a disservice to the people who are losing the right to live their lives on their own terms. Abuse, neglect, gas-lighting and manipulation are tactics used by the oppressor to maintain control over a person, or in this case, an entire group of people. The name Pat is used to address the Patriarchy throughout this collection. This collection is an expression of rage directed at those who have the audacity to claim to be acting in the best interest of those whom they are controlling.