If you look into this child's eyes,
You will start to cry.
She suffered so much pain growing up with a dad that sexually abused her until age nine.
In this picture she was ten, somehow starting to feel a little bit fine.
With four younger siblings and an older brother, mentally challenged, she was theirs to look up to.
But how can they look up to her, when this is what she has been through.
Her father was an alcoholic and used drugs on the side.
He would sometimes walk in their house at 3am feeling high.
This little girl, who tried her best in school,
was nobody's beautiful fool.
She was awkwardly dressed with improper clothing, but tried to keep a smile on her face.
Day to day and night to night, in her siblings arms they would embrace.
Sometimes there would be no food to eat.
Sometimes no socks or shoes on their feet.
Everyday was a challenge in their lives, until the day that their dad had died.
The tears that fell were cold and dried up.
This was the day that this family could rejoice.
When could you say enough is enough.
Survival was their choice.
Then the smile upon their faces became joyous and real.
For now they can finally feel safe, and enjoy each meal.
Love has brought them where they are today.
In each others hearts to stay.
©terrylin53
T