Red Handprint

A slap across the face, whether literally or figuratively, is unbearable. Tolerance, whether of an irate boss, of being ostracised, or of physical abuse has its limits. 

Without condoning any mistreatment, there are healthy ways to respond to it. Staying calm, setting consequences and establishing boundaries are the simplest things we can do to protect ourselves, aside from seeking help. 

When the red handprint covers our mouths and silences us, we're not voiceless. These haiku verses will attest to that. 

A crimson handprint

Red splashes untouched canvass

Board looks and absorbs

A crimson handprint

Red splashes broken canvass

Board still and stoic

Vermillion colour

Striking at the sides

Edges rein in paint

A scarlet paintbrush

Moves with rage over easel

Aware of its bounds

The painted portrait

Ruby red, the mouth covered

Green, yellows, blues, whites surround