I dream of an island far away,
where all of the children could run, laugh and play.
No reason for them to be afraid,
their trusting little hearts would never be betrayed.

Plenty of food for everyone to eat,
clothes to wear, socks and shoes for their little feet.
From early sunrise to each sunset,
every child’s need for love, hugs and comfort met.

Times gone feeling unwanted or alone,
someone to welcome them when they come home.
Ready to listen how they spent their day,
instead of quieting them and telling them to go away.

No one permitted to offer an excuse,
for allowing or showing known forms of child abuse.
Never a bruise would show or any tears,
they would live forever, safe from any hurtful years.

Kittens and puppies to share the days,
people to encourage and give them needed praise.
Grandmas and Grandpas allowed near,
to hold them and chase away everything they fear.

Some days bringing you pretty flowers,
able to entertain their little friends alone for hours.
Allowed each day to feel safe and strong,
confident in their world nothing will ever go wrong.

Not any harsh word to be spoken aloud,
they could walk with heads held high and feel proud.
Is this really too much for us to ask,
Is protecting all the small children such a hard task.

Must I dream of such an island alone,
where children thrive when love is always shown.
An island far away though cannot be real,
but these are the thoughts I always dream and feel.

© Brenda Sparkman
October 9, 2006