Little child, that I could lift you
take you out of a past reality
and hold you in my arms with
no possibility that your brilliance,
your spirit and power could
or would ever be mismanaged,
abused or underestimated –
white hair, rose lips, your blue eyes
filled with playful joy, such 
admiration and love I have for you.

Were I able to take away all the hurt,
would you still be you? 
Would I be erasing the spark 
that fought its way to becoming
this radiant blazing woman who
carries compassion and love
in a paper cup ready to share
a splendid gulp of open handed grace
with anyone fortunate enough to
share your bold path to what is
best about being human?

by Kelly Waterbury