I was just a little girl

I saw a picture today that has rocked me to my core.

Her innocence bloomed and I felt scared.

Scared for a little girl I once knew and was lost.

I have wept with intense being for the pain I know she went through.

For the fear she felt and the shame she bore.

I have seen her stare down the barrel of death and then be flung into the arms of life.

I tried to protect her and shield her from the bad.

But her tiny soft hand slipped through my grip.

A beautiful blonde baby girl, all grown up now.

I hug her with warmth and love. I smile when I see her.

For she brings such joy into my life.