I never knew.

I never knew how bad it was;
I heard it did exist.
I was appalled at this crime
That robbed youth
Of their "special" time.

I never knew how bad it hurt;
The bruises and scars aren't even seen.
And why somewhere along life's way,
The brutality of abuse
Has made you pay.

I never knew how you felt;
Your self-esteem so low.
I only knew you crept away,
And never let your feelings show.

I never knew what I could do;
That I could help somehow.
That all you needed was a friend;
Just someone to be your pal.

But now I know that I can help;
I can make a difference, too.
I'll stand with you; I'll shout with you,
And the rest can't say, "I never knew"