Child No More

Child, we bear witness
To the canvas of your youth
Upon which your parents
Anointed their hopes
About which your parents
Hung their fears
Over which your parents
Layered protective prayers
In vain

Child, we see you
Gaze as open as a mirror is smooth
Untouched by Time
Who’s harsh tick would have carved out lines
Unblemished through Power
Who’s influence would have eroded your soul
So unprepared for Life
You could only be preserved in death
By Love

Child...
Once small and precious and warm
You are no longer remembered...
Only imagined
You are no more.