Childhoodless

Everyone was treated the same
Except for their names.
The same amount of money
So we could live with
A pretend happy family.
I suddenly became the adult
After receiving his paid sexual assaults.
When his secret was told
I went to a different home where
Everyone was treated the same
Except for their names.
The same amount of money
With paid care.
I was young among the old
Waiting for my life to unfold
With yearning for a love that
I didn't have to share.
Gradually, I gained partial freedom
Where everyone is treated the same
Except for their names.
Different amounts of money
And I'm still the young among the old
Wanting to feel that baby hold.
I wish someone had enough tenderness
Not to let me die childhoodless.
Whitney Lyons
Copyright 1995 Whitney Lyons