When did the definition

of no become

yes?

-

This changed overnight

while I wasn't

prepared.

-

One second we're all

friends with no

motives.

-

A switch is flipped on,

or was it

off?

-

Boys became something

that I should

fear.

-

Watch what they give

you to drink,

dear.

-

People would warn me,

over and over,

be careful.

-

Make sure your guard

is always up,

always defensive.

-

Boys became mean and

ruthless and no

meant yes.

-

Suddenly the world made

no sense and I

was lost.

-

Coffee with friends turned

tearful and so

quiet.

-

"It wasn't rape," they

whisper to me,

broken.

-

"He just took advantage

then left me in

pieces."

-

Eyes were filled with disbelief

and forgotten hope

remained.

-

When, where, how was

our power taken

away?

-

My words would mean

nothing to a wanting

man.

-

"It's not rape, but

persuasion and that's

natural."

-

No will never mean

yes to me

at all.

-

College changes everyone, but

it doesn't have

to.

-

Understand the definition of

words and respect

them.

-

That's all we want:

respect, understanding, and

trust.