Underneath the surface
of a freckled face
and wide smile
they knew there was a child
afraid of people's ways.
Afraid of anger
of displeasure
from those who were
many times her size;
trained by
the sting of slaps
to be seen and not heard.
Bright as a lightbulb
quick to prove
her worth
to do good
to do right.
But the slightest
raise of your voice
could send a wave of fear
over face
her big eyes
filling then overflowing
with tears,
afraid of the punishment
she knew was coming.
She'd promise to be better--
to try harder
to work more
to prove she was good.
That she didn't deserve
to be hurt.
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