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,
A single 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 or 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 chance to be proud if only in borrowed shoes.


Copyright © October 2009
Kevin Mooney

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