Leaving for Peace

“When I was a kid, I thought home was supposed to feel safe. But every night,

the house was loud… not with laughter, but with silence after shouting. I learned early

how to read footsteps, how to disappear into my room, how to grow up too fast.

Years later, they ask, ‘Why are you so distant?’ They don’t remember

the nights I taught myself to be strong because no one else could.

I still love my family. But love doesn’t erase scars. Some people leave

home to find freedom. Others leave… to finally find peace.”**