I’ve never seen you like this before,

As a little girl in the corner of a round room, bawling;

Loveless and helpless, silenced, forgotten,

You scared me awake when I saw you;

/

I’m sorry, I’m afraid to step closer

Because I will not know how to hold you:

I do not have the words to console you

Nor the gentle touch of basic compassion;

/

Forgive me, I can’t run to your rescue

To lead you out of this vicious circle;

Like a fortress, I’m built to protect you

Until the day you outgrow my tall walls;

/

And till that day, I promise to guard you,

To keep you safe while your strength is growing,

To slay for you a million demons – or saints,

Because you are all that matters;

/

My hands and weapons will never tire,

I will not falter at the sight of blood nor pain –

To give you all the time that you need to

Remember I’m a dream you are dreaming;

/

Wake up, wake up, wake up,

To your freedom!