Two Men Named Jack

I estimate that I was no older than four when Jack came into our home and into my life. I can’t clearly remember a time that he wasn’t there. When he was drunk, Jack was violent and abusive. He hurled vulgarities and insults incessantly. To demonstrate his hostility, he also threw objects and smashed household items.

Because of Jack, fear was a persistent force that had befriended me. I could always depend on it being present, day and night. There was never a time when I was not afraid of what would happen next.