Small Child

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Small child,

in your world-weary stare,

a thousand ancient lives have passed,

no dawn breaking 

on the horizon.

You walked so far,

thirsty, hungry,

footsore.

Your Papa told you

when you reached us,

life would get better.

There would be food, a bed,

and more.

Though you walked

with all your heart

and all your hope,

trusting your Papa 

would keep you safe,

your small body

could take no more.

You found your relief

in heaven,

not on our shore

and, because of that,

your father's tears

will never cease.

Fly, little bird,

fly free.

Find a more peaceful sky

in which 

to be.

Jakelin Amei Rosmery Caal Maquin, age seven, died on December 15, in custody of U.S. Border Patrol, after a long journey from Guatemala, where she and her father were fleeing violence and poverty, in hopes of finding a better life. US government sources blame the victims, rather than those following inhumane orders, for this tragic death.

No child of seven should have lived the pain reflected in Jakelin's weary, hopeless eyes. And now there is also Felipe Alonzo-Gomez, age eight, who also died in the custody of custom officials. (How do they sleep at night?)

I don't know how much more of this heartless regime I can take. When will people take to the streets and demand that it ends? I am hoping the Women's March on January 17 will have impact. Spokeswomen for the march say they are marching for this little girl, and for Felipe. They are marching for a saner world for children to grow up in.

There is so much that needs saving. Pick what matters most to you and write to your elected officials. It does have impact. March if you are able to.

Another help for Mother Earth: plant food and trees.