LITTLE BOY

Mama, why will you not touch me?
When I come near, you back away in fear
From me, your child, the little boy who loves you
And finds your tearful horror hard to bear.

Mama, why will you not hold me?
My outstretched arms ignored as you walk by
I long for you to put your arms around me
Instead, I have to run away and cry.

Mama, why will you not kiss me?
One tender little kiss upon my face
The touch of your warm lips against my forehead
Is all that I could ask of Heaven's grace.

Mother, I look back upon my childhood
My memories are bleak and bittersweet
If only you had seen the boy who loved you
But all you ever thought me was - a freak.

Mother, if you ever think of me now
In all the years that we have been apart
For the son whom you regarded as so hideous
I would hope you found some fondness in your heart.

Mother, I have found the love I yearned for
An Angel who has given me her soul
And in return I give her my heart's music
At last I have attained my shining goal.

Christine, all my life I have been searching
For that light which flickered just beyond my grasp
One steady flame of hope which burned inside me
To find someone to love was all I asked.

Christine, my dearest love, now that you're with me
Your heart within my hands my greatest joy
I give you all the love that flames within me
Since when I was that unloved little boy.

©Jeanette Birt 2002