The Poem Mary Read Over A Strummed C Chord At A Domestic Violence Awareness Benefit

April 2, 2025

The small auditorium buzzed with anticipation as people filed into their seats, each one carrying a story of pain or hope. Mary stood backstage, clutching a crumpled piece of paper in her hand. It was the poem she had written for the domestic violence awareness benefit, and her heart raced as she prepared to read it aloud. She could hear the strumming of a gentle C chord from the guitarist who would accompany her, a warm and inviting sound that filled the air with promise. This was not just another performance; it was a chance to use her voice to make a difference.

As Mary stepped into the spotlight, she scanned the crowd, seeing faces that mirrored the emotional weight of the evening. Some people looked hopeful, while others bore the marks of their struggles. She took a deep breath and began to recite her poem, each word flowing from her with a raw honesty that touched everyone in the room. The poem spoke about strength, resilience, and the power of love to overcome even the darkest moments. With each line, Mary shared her own experiences, channeling the pain she had witnessed in others into something beautiful and uplifting.

When she finished reading, the room fell silent for a moment, as if everyone was absorbing the emotional impact of her words. Then, the audience erupted into applause, and Mary felt a wave of relief wash over her. It was more than just approval; it was recognition that her message resonated with those around her. Right there, in that moment, she understood that her music and poetry could create a safe space for others to share their stories and seek healing.

As the evening progressed, people approached her, sharing their own experiences and thanking her for her courage. Mary listened, offering words of comfort and understanding. She realized that the event was not merely about raising funds; it was about building a community of support and awareness. Each story she heard fueled her passion for her art, igniting a fire within her to continue advocating for those whose voices often went unheard.

After the benefit, Mary found herself overwhelmed by the response. Her performance was not just a one-time event; it marked a turning point in her career. She began receiving invitations to participate in more awareness events and fundraisers, using her music as a platform to inspire change. The poem she had written that night became a defining piece of her journey, reminding her and others that vulnerability could lead to immense strength.

Months later, when she performed the same poem at a larger venue, she noticed the impact of her message rippling outward. The applause was louder, the smiles brighter, and the stories shared with her more powerful than ever. Mary realized that through her art, she had not only found her voice but had also given others the courage to find theirs. In that realization, she discovered that music was a force for healing, and she was determined to keep strumming those chords of hope, one performance at a time.