Little Girl

photo: Rubielyn Bunag from wn.com 

Street children – the long-time problem of Metro Manila that seems to have become a staple irritant in the streets of the metro. Irritant. I say irritant because of those who think that children are animals – the neglectful parents, the criminal syndicates, the government that is lacking the aggressiveness in really addressing the issues of this country. I want to do something about these children.... Oh, God where do I start?

Written Sept. 18, 1998, more than 10 years ago

My heart shed tears

When I asked her

Where do you live?

Where is your mother?

The disheveled hair

The dirty clothes

The plastic cup in her hand

Seemed to be the only thing she owned

Her eyes melted

I did not know what to do

Should I give her a coin

And have the others flock at me

Should I take her with me

But where will I bring her

Then the light turned green

I had to go

My entire being grew heavy

So I said a prayer

But I could not look into God's eyes

How can I say

“Praise You, Lord”

“I love You, Lord”

Just to walk away

Tonight I will have plenty of food

I will be lying on a bed

So soft, so clean, smelling so good

Little girl, I am thinking of you

God, put her in Your hands and keep her safe

Little girl, are you thinking of me too

I would like to ask

If I may

Please pray for me too