I remember...

I remember when the world stretched before me,
An untrodden path, like first snow
I remember how excited I was at gifts
To unwrap and magically create like god
I remember that I was led like a small pet
And never minded the sheepdog nor the display
I remember the terror of darkness and quiet noises
Praying for sleep and praying to wake again
I remember believing everything I was told
Never doubting my supposed betters
I remember the tangible thrill of a kiss
And the vibrations set out from my heart
I remember certain days out always in sunshine
The fun we had, yet so few days?
I remember first love All consuming,
My only pure and true love

I remember the shyness with which I was clothed
And how painful it was to wear
I remember the pain of despite
And the fear with which I had to run and hide
I remember the taunts and jeers
And how loud they sounded in my presence
I remember crying out for help
And never receiving aid nor excuse
I remember then how silent I was
And how I built my monastic walls and withdrew
I remember wishing the years away
And praying for my childhood to end

Now I wish I could return to childhood
And rescue me