A forsaken child’s plea

I appreciate your compassion –
But I need your love –
I need your arms
To hold me close.
Keep me safe
From the horrors
Of the world.
I need your guidance
To travel the right path.
I need your strength –
Not gifts of toys, powdered milk
And clothes.
Your visits to the orphanage
Only leave me sad.
Each time you leave, I cry –
I want so much to hold your hand–
And go home with you.
I see in your eyes the love I need –
Won’t you give it to me –
In place of compassion?

By Punyakante Wijenaike, Colombo