Why I Endured The Abuse

From the day we brought her home,
The moment that she cried
I knew my life was changing with
One glance into her eyes.

I couldn't wait to play with her
With my legs she could walk.
She took the breath right out of me
And slowly learned to talk.

I realize now, the bond we share
came from fearful nights
when mommy starts to drink and use,
And I was what she'd fight.

I vowed one night, long ago
while singing my angel to sleep
That I would be the one, so small,
To save her from this keep.

"I am your Shield, Alexis,
And you are my heart.
I will keep you safe from harm
She can't tear us apart.

The word, 'sister' is a promise
I hold with all my might
So help me God, if you are hurt
She'll wish for Hell's sick light."

And that night she broke my skin,
Looking at what she had done
I smiled weakly, to myself
I knew that we had won.

The bandage on my arm
Is the sign of my belief
Strong enough to take the pain
For my sister's sweet relief.

We never talk about just why
The both of us are free,
I know that she is proud of how
this scar was not for me.

My sister is my best friend,
A bond no one can break,
I will remain her shield until
We meet at heaven's gate.