The Feeling Child always hoping for my undivided attention

An Earned Trust Won

Tear-stained letters written
And folded up for me
Packaged in sealed envelopes
She wants to set me free

Her stories tell the details
Of secrets long withheld
She’s wondered if I’d love her
Seeing scribbled words miss-spelled

She had to know I’d be here
And stay for the duration
For what is being asked of me
She’s feared that I may chasten

She peers around the corner
Holding breath standing stock still
Will I store her letters?
Or open them and shrill!

She’s heard my words of longing
To know her whole life truth
Could I really mean it?
Caring deeply ‘bout her youth?

Upon this one condition
Worlds of difference it will make
That I’d share in all her feelings
A pinky promise I won’t break.

Torn asunder times before
Quietly hiding now with hope
Watching warily how I open
This first letter enveloped.