The Misery Of Giving

• Emma Whitmore, Grade 7, Marist Sisters College
• Poetry
• 2017

Excellence Award in the 'Spread The Word 2017' competition

When bright flooded through the cracks of a new life,
Her young, groggy eyes would open to the sun as sharp as a knife
Another day would pass with our survival on the line,
Desperate to convince them that we will be fine.
Laughter would faintly echo off the streets,
While my sad, singular heart would barely beat.
Everytime I tried to smile it would only end in pain
For I felt so alone I would never be the same.

As we neared the old buildings I held onto you tight,
Covering you in my gritty cloak as a shield from the harsh night.
Innocence glowed off your unsuspecting face,
As we slowly neared the dreaded place.
Where children like you were given a home,
While mothers like me were left to roam.
I wrapped my dirty, beloved cloak around you tight
And with a single tear, ran away into the night.