My daughter.

• Author: Dumont, Lynda

But for you, my daughter, I might have

faltered

In those forsaken moments of life,

But your small hand in mine

Compelled me to continue the fight.

I wanted you to be free ...

Even as I couldn't be.

I wanted you to dance your dances

And to dream your great dreams;

To know the endless possibilities --

And to believe they could come true.

So for you, my daughter, instead of

saying "no"

To your needs and your wishes

I stood on the corner and sold papers,

And waited in line-ups at food banks,

Resolute, tarnished by poverty,

Dressed in my clothing bank attire

While you stayed safe at home.

It was all worth while.

One day you told me

About the poor children at your school --

Your gentle heart was touched by their

need.

...