Who hears and cries for the abused child? Numerous times during the days, weeks, months and years, I ponder the actions that caused me to mistreat my child when there was no good reason. I inflicted mental harm to him, more so than physical, on a young child who did nothing wrong and didn't deserve such bad treatment. Just the thought of the bad actions I imposed upon my child constantly entered my mind, reminding me that I did something completely uncalled for. For this, I spoke to my child time and time again, and he has said more times than I can count, "Dad, forget it. That's all in the past. I forgive you and you should forgive yourself." Even if this is so, the pain still exists within me for unfairly mistreating my child for no apparent reason. The word forgiveness is a very powerful term, and with it comes pride, serenity, and courage. Still the pain lingers and I cannot forget the wrong I've done to my child. Even as I function through the timespan of my life, I still find it hard to forget my cruel actions. I've long wondered just what was taking place in my life that would have made me be so aggressive. Originally from Maryland, Alim M. Bey now resides in Greensboro, North Carolina. "I realize I had to open my eyes, mind, and heart to the realization of treating others as I'd have them treat me, with respect. I am now and have learned to claim ownership for my actions." The author is retired and also writes poetry. Publisher's website: http: //sbprabooks.com/AlimMBey