A Place in Life

I wrote this in honor of my cousin, who was an orphan in India before she became a member of my family.

Left at a doorstep of an old orphanage,

Stranded in the cold, looking for a hand to hold,

“Mama, where did you go?” the young baby cried,

Left alone without a place in the world.

 

“Mama, mama, come back to me,” the baby howled,

But her mama was fleeing, leaving her baby behind,

“Mama, mama, don’t do this to me,” she cried out,

Left alone without a place in the world.

 

Months later, my aunt and uncle accepted the challenge of adoption,

The poor little baby has a new Mama,

“Mama? Mama?” the baby cried.

“I’m here. I’m here. You have a place in our world.”

 

Growing up as an Indian child in a white family,

Surrounded by church, singing and dance,

Going to school, having opportunities,

Gaining a place in the world.

 

Learning to trust God in any situation,

Taking the adventurous step, a wise choice,

Joining the National Guard right out of college,

Protecting our country, just like she protects our family.

 

The best choice a girl can make,

Meeting her fiancé, falling in love,

Giving birth to her first son, Brently Allan,

Giving him a place in the world.

 

Becoming a Mama herself,

Learning to love life and to accept others,

Being a role model for her cousin,

Finally gaining a place in life.

 

Once an orphan, once alone,

Now surrounded by love,

My cousin, ladies and folk,

A true woman in life.

 

 

Author's Note

In honor of Anjuli Smith, one of the most inspiring people in my life.

Reviews

[The New Bard]

Magnifico! Absolutely awe-inspiring!