Hey diary,
So, I was watching this TV show the other day, and they had a character with "abusive parents." But you know what? That's not what I have. My parents aren't just strict; they're abusive. It's not the same thing at all, and it made me mad to see it portrayed that way on TV.
I wish I could speak up and tell the truth about what really goes on in my house. But I'm too scared. I can't risk making things worse for myself. So, I keep quiet and pretend everything's fine. It's easier that way.
I have to be careful around my parents. I have to watch what I say and do, or I might end up with another bruise or mark. It's hard to pretend to be someone I'm not, but I have to do it to survive.
I wish things were different. I wish I could be free to be myself, to play in the mud and talk to my robot friends without fear of punishment. But that's not my reality. My reality is one of fear and pain.
I try to find moments of joy in my day, like when N, one of my robot friends, makes me laugh or when I can sneak in a moment of freedom when my parents aren't looking. Those moments keep me going, keep me hopeful that maybe one day things will change.
But for now, I'll keep pretending, keep smiling when I want to cry, and keep hoping for a better tomorrow.
Until next time, Tessa