You and I have never met

But I am the child you must not forget.

I am the child who whimpered in pain.

I am the child who was beaten and slain.

I am the child who cried at night.

I am the child whose future was bright.

I am the child whose fear was real.

I am the child whose scars won’t heal.

I am the child you see each day,

Who is not your problem, so you turn away.

I am the child, the child so small

Who only wanted to be loved, that’s all.

You and I have never met,

But I am the child you must not forget.

Susan J.
This poem has been used in child abuse prevention programs across the world.