THE DREAMER

THE DREAMER

She awakens to shots fired in the alley

Reaching over she touches her mommy

At least this time they are safe

But next time might be different

Their cardboard box is all they have

And the dirty clothes they wear

Nothing fancy, nothing new

But home since she can remember

Her days are filled with rummaging through cans

Choosing which items are still good

Her nights are filled with shots fired, shouting

And shadows that frighten her

When she finally reaches sleep she is safe

Dreams are her salvation

Instead of dreaming of being a ballerina

Her dreams are of a warm, safe home

She doesn’t know how sad she is

For she is only six

By Regina