I REMEMBER

I REMEMBER

I remember, my little one
I remember when I saw you
the very first time.
The wild mane of your blond hair
Your flaming green eyes
Like mine
Exactly like mine...

I remember, my little one
I remember thinking
No, he is so small
Small like I was
Lithe and lean
Like I was
And in a reflex
I opened my arms and hugged you

I don't mention your name
Like I can never mention my own
You live somewhere I can't find
As you can never trace me

I remember, my little one
Your warm arms around my neck
And your soothing words
In a strange
Unknown language
I cannot understand
Your small body against mine

I remember, my little one
How we entered the woods
Frantic
Searching for the one road
I had imprinted in my head
And how I let your small hand
Slip away
Encouraging you

I don't mention your name
But you fought like a lion,
my little devil
Until they let you near me

I remember, my little one
How my eyes and ears
did not want to work until
Your roaring cry reached me
And through the mist and clouds
I felt your tears
On the one hand that could feel

I remember, my little one
The deep love in my heart for you
How I stroked your hair before
They took you to safety
And even though I cannot
see or talk to you
You are in my heart of hearts
My little one, for ever.

- Darren White

September 2016