Dear Little One

Dear little one,
   finder of pennies and cool rocks
(because you were always looking down)
rarely meeting the world eye to eye.
It was easier to stay lost in thought
  drifting away hours
    in a record player or book…

Oh, but you were observant.
Quietly watching and listening
  for the moment when they might take notice --
“Such an easy child,” they’d say.

You didn’t ask for much
  (they taught you early there was no point)
Learned to take care of your needs --
  the lunches
    the drives
      the homework
knowing no one had your back.
You even took the attention that came your way
  despite the fear and shame that would come with it
You didn’t know – you just needed
  to feel a little less
    insignificant

Dear little one, look up now.
I will meet your eyes and smile.
I will notice, without you asking,
  all your colours and spice.
I’ll give you the connection you seek
  and protection from the attention that hurts.

Little one, I’ve got your back now.