Alma L. Jackson

A Child’s Trust

 (© Feb. 25, 1989)

That look in your eyes,
That look of leering lust.
A look I soon despised
‘Cause, you betrayed my trust.

The sadness, guilt, and shame
Overcame me to no end.
Your excuse was so lame,
I felt as though I’d sinned.

When I was a child, you said
“I love you, dear girl,
Get into my bed.
Don’t tell the world.”

You told all lies,
Which made me sad.
For in society’s eyes,
Only I was bad.

Yet, I knew inside
Who you really were.
I knew that you lied.
Did you not care?

My body felt defiled,
‘Cause you couldn’t wait.
Though I was merely a child,
I did not like my fate.

Was I within my rights
To feel so much fear?
I cried quietly at night
When no one could hear.

Why did you let lust
Overpower a child so young?
You would say
“Hush,? Don’t tell anyone.”

You knew you were wrong
When you led me astray.
I waited for so long,
To live life my way.

My message is so clear
To you, and others alike.
I never asked you to come near,
That child in my life.