For Andrea
(and all abused children, everywhere)
by
Linda Howard Willingham




I had no choice in being born
It just happened that way
So I woke up every morning
Fearful of that day

Oh, how I longed for laughter
A hug from a loving arm
A warm soft hand to caress me
And protect me safe from harm

I must have been really bad
For no one to ever want me
I was just lonely and scared
The only way I knew how to be

I tried to be especially good
And not get in anyone's way
Sometimes my hurt got so bad
But there was nothing I could say

Then one night I went off to sleep
And woke in the most beautiful place
With a new and loving Father
With the kindest smiling face

He has lots of children, just like me
And more come here all the time
I've met Michael and Alex
Who were deserted and left behind

I was never this safe and happy
In my whole five years on earth
This brand new Father that's took me in
Gave me an angel's birth.


Feb. 14, 1995