I dreamt of falling down a well,
A narrow tube, deep beneath the earth,
Dark and moist, I saw a small child,
What’s he trying to tell?

He's trying to tell me that I'm not safe
If I stay in his world, unprotected;
But how can I not stay when
the child must?
His existence means a great deal more
to me than my own.

He's telling me that he belongs here:
He was murdered many ages ago
by his Uncle Jim.
Then his little body was callously
thrown in this well. . . .
Until now he has been forgotten
by everyone,
Even by those who seemed to care.

Well when I awaken, the outcome
will have altered.
The world will no longer remain
unaware.
It is I who will bring justice to Matthew,
And Uncle Jim will pay a bitter price.

*****

The proper authorities
have been informed,
And Matthew's body recovered for
a decent burial . . . .
Even though I really didn't know him,
I miss his presence & the love
I felt for him.

I went to a reputable adoption agency
Intending to adopt a baby boy,
Except pictures of countless children
With dejected disregarded faces
caught my eye instead. . . .
So I adopted Tony, as he reminded me
of Matthew.







© Kris Bailey
1-4-23.