Through the eyes of a child

At the keyhole listening,
the grownups not aware.
Problems discussed,
the little girl heard all.

This secret kept locked inside,
a little heart beating fast,
no one to confide in,
a heavy burden to carry.

Mummy and Daddy worried,
monthly wages not enough,
into debts with no choice,
money-lenders a new word learned.

Forgetting sometimes, she asks
for toys in the shop windows.
Each time she hides her tears,
never letting on her sadness.

The little girl understood,
With no money you get shunned.
Uniforms and field trips cost money,
She cannot join the Girl Guides.

Uniform faded with many washes,
hems let out, she has outgrown it.
Teachers without regard,
punishes and embarrasses her.

Two slices of bread with margarine,
A breakfast to last until lunch.
The bell rings for recess,
However hungry, she tells no one,

Home is her safe haven,
However much the worry of money,
she knows she is safe and loved,
by parents who try hard to provide.

By C.E. Pereira
(12-7-2015)