Breaking the Cycle is a series of fictional poems and short stories derived from true accounts of tragedy, loss and pain combined with stories of finding inner strength and conquering adversity. Breaking the Cycle graphically addresses issues of abuse, substance abuse, heart break, death and conversely love, hope, strength, spiritual and emotional growth. Breaking the Cycle will give perspective to individuals who do not understand the plight of people growing up in impoverished communities and will give a constructive voice to those who identify but do not have an outlet to express their story. All of this in hopes of one day completely Breaking the Cycle of poverty.