LITTLE GIRL
                by Meghan Roewer


I saw the eyes of an old woman
in the face of a child.
It was experienced and knew much
Though tender, pained and mild.

I saw the posture of a weakened woman
In a body that had known a sad childhood
She carried herself with meaning
Following orders without thinking if she should.

I saw the strenght of a warrior
In a heart that knew only to survive.
It brought itself to face each day
And yet, was barely alive.

I saw the spirit of an aged soldier
Inside the lost soul of a mere baby.
It had fought many battles
Now, it was crying "Save me."

I saw a little girl
who had grown up too fast.
She had already lived her life
Though she barely had a past.
I saw all this
and it broke my heart to see.
Then, I looked a little closer
And saw that little girl was me.

She had been mistreated by her no good father who is very lucky I didn't know about it before my daughter kicked him out.