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Psychrespect

Psychreflections

Not All Men

1/7/2018

 
Listen to Carmel recite her poem on ABC Radio, Mornings with Jon Faine, 11 July 2018

When I say I am afraid of men who mean me harm,
You tell me not to make a fuss, there’s no need for alarm;
That not all men are like that, not to stress my pretty head
Or talk about those other men; just look at you instead.
But what of women suffering, a slap, a punch, a shove,
A life of menacing oppression from a man they love.
 
Not all men are sexist, not all men disrespect
Not all men are the man who harms what he should protect
Not all men are vicious, not all men are brutes
Not all men are the man who punches, rapes and shoots.
Not all men use violence, most are courteous and kind
But when I talk of toxic men the others feel maligned.
 
So I ask you to consider when you jump in to defend
How did speaking up for women become slandering of men?
Why is it when I voice my fears you first defend your brothers
Instead of listening to your sisters, mothers or your lovers?
I need you to hear my voice and listen to my fears
But you keep on shouting louder and my voice just disappears.
 
Not all men will listen, not all men understand
You tell me you are ‘not all men’, a verbal sleight of hand.
I can look at you and love you, and yet still be afraid
While so much deadly violence still seems to be man-made
Do not usurp my story, don’t tell me what to do,
This is not about all men, don’t make it about you.
 
Carmel O’Brien
Laura
1/7/2018 03:37:11 pm

Perfectly on point 👌

Virginia Ward
8/7/2018 10:37:22 am

Beautiful, Great poem!. 💚

Carolyn Burns
11/7/2018 10:10:40 am

I heard this amazing Woman on radio 774 this morning. The poem literally stopped me in my tracks! Thanks Carmel for putting into words so eloquently what many Women are thinking & experiencing.

Belinda
12/7/2018 07:04:31 pm

This poem stopped me in my tracks and left me breathless with emotion when I first heard it. I’ve found it hard to put this position into words but you’ve captured it beautifully. Really leaves one pausing for thought, well done!

Vivian
14/7/2018 10:20:02 am

What a Powerful Poem!
No doubt it resonates with so many people and the movement by women and many honourable men , like my sons, continues to strive for respect for women and "outing" male violence against women. Carmel's passion, and her contribution in educating us all in understanding the domestic violence epidemic and teaching us how to support women and families is admirable!!!


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    Original and individual reflections by Carmel O’Brien. Learn, laugh, enjoy.

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  • Home
  • Carmel O'Brien
    • Carmel's Work >
      • Herald Sun 7 Oct 2016
      • ABC News Breakfast 5 Oct 2016
      • The Australian 23 Aug 2016
  • Blame Changer
  • Psychreflections
  • Family Violence Training
  • Useful Links
    • Websites
    • Apps
  • Contact