To the Child Within

To The Child Within

Every night as I tuck my child
into bed,
innocent and serene,
kiss his forehead, eyelids and the tip of his nose,
as I smooth soft blankets
around his small body,
warm and safe,
I think of you.

I remember days of laughter
and childish dreams,
young, strong legs flashing in the sun,
pigtails bouncing,
sun-kissed freckles,
skinned knees and cries of
“Olly, olly, all come free.”

Until those smug eyes
and that sly look
began to chase you
in your sleep.

I remember innocence lost
and stolen trust.

I remember the small space
in which you hid.

Please let me hold you and ease
those memories.
Let me take away
those dark fears.

Let me take from you
the chains of blame
that were never
yours to accept.

Let me comfort you
the way a mother
should have done.

Let the silver veil of sleep fall
around you
untorn, undisturbed,
the sticky cobwebs of your memories
swept from your despair.

A kiss on each cheek, love,
to banish a legacy of tears.

Let there be forgiveness,
you did nothing wrong, dear. ©

~Kelly