I see the child within you,

with your boyish short fair hair.

I hold my arms out to you

I want to show I care.

They may have left you

broken, bewildered and abused,

but I will never leave you

feeling neglected, sad and used.

You stand there like a ghost child,

one sock up and one half down.

too sad, too shy, too quiet,

Your face a pale, sad, frown.

Your little dress is crass and short,

your shoes are scuffed and worn,

your toys are few and far between,

your bear, one eyed and torn.

I see you quietly playing.

keep out the grown-ups way,

don’t let them know of what you think,

they cannot make you say.

Come  child, sit here upon my knee,

Let me soothe away the pain;

cry out your little heart to me

they can’t hurt you again.

Hush child, no need to cry,

I will wipe away your tears.

Just hold my hand and follow me,

I can soothe away your fears.

Hold strong, my love, rest in my arms;

be still and do not weep.

Listen to my lullaby

I’ll guard you whilst you sleep.

Be brave and bide your time Karen,

your future may be bright.

Hold the pain, the memories

take up your pen and write

© Child Within 2012

by Alexandra Carr-Malcolm