Borrowed Shoes

A child unborn cannot choose,
When life begins? It's win or lose.
To those that believe, its a blessing sent,
To those that can't see, its a detriment.

A newborn entered the world today,
Conceived and borne in the usual way.
A child unable to survive on its own,
In need of love and a stable home.

It had no choice in the hand it was dealt,
No idea of what others' felt.
The blossom of a seed unwantedly sewn,
Helplessly handed to those unknown.

A child can't decipher that which he lacks,
We're all born naked, no clothes on our backs.
Parents and society determine one's choice,
An unborn child has no vote or voice.

To be showered with gifts and the riches of kings,
Or chastened with poverty and borrowed things.
Given the choice I think most would agree,
Even second hand shoes can be a luxury.

This child was brought up with love and respect,
The kind of nurturing not everyone gets.
It was raised and reared bereft hatred and abuse,
Not a burden or victim, needs never refused.

It grew into a fine human being,
Morally just, despite its beginnings.
Soon it became the envy of most,
A community pillar, source of reputable toasts.

A natural born leader that so many trust,
A political mind, a poll voter's must.
Eventually hailed chief of a sovereign land,
A life fully lived from a birth unplanned.

It just goes to show you that rights misconstrued,
Can shatter a life before its brand new.
All living creatures deserve life if they choose,
Whether they're wanted or someone's bad news.

The choice is easy when one can see,
A life preserved for posterity.
Though impoverished inability may offer an excuse,
Even an unborn child has a life to lose.
Every child needs a chance if only in borrowed shoes.


Copyright © October 2009
Kevin Mooney