"What I See"- Angelina

What I see

Her world was polluted with violence and drugs

Yet she sensed the beauty of life

She closed her eyes and dreamt of tomorrow

Shutting away a world filled with sorrow

She was accustomed to the pain,

Indifferent to the struggle

So her heart was the only thing she’d follow

She’s never had a constant source of support

Not even an inspiration

So she envisioned her aspirations.

She dreamt that no child would ever have to go through things alone.

That in the midst of despair, they’ll learn to find light in themselves

And in the eyes of those around them

She dreamt that children would value the importance of education

That her friends would go to class

Than to tend to drugs and bail

She’s seen too many others fail

Resist temptations, that’s what she’d always say

Yet her family and her friends refused to stay

Alone, she dreamt of a world united with compassion and love

No broken families and no dinners eaten alone

Oppressed, she dreamt of a world free from judgment

No racial, ethnic, and religious discrimination

Deprived, she dreamt of the innocence of young children

And their gratitude for the simplest things in life

Judged, she dreamt of a world in which one does not fear individualism

And wholeheartedly accept their backgrounds

Insecure, she dreamt of a world in which everyone can learn to find the beauty

And history in damages and scars

She dreamt that you could picture what she can;

That far in the sunshine was her highest aspirations

She may not be able to reach it

But she could stare up and admire its beauty

She dreams that you wouldn’t be afraid of dreaming too.

You don’t always have to let it be.

Although people say things are better left unsaid,

Things are best left when they are said.

Take it from someone whose witness it all firsthand

The pain inflicted by her father’s fist and hand

So take the doubts and fears away

Because persistence & strength will lead the way

I know you’re overwhelmed because this girl- oh, this girl

She dreams of so much-

So much that it has probably gotten your head and your heart in a knot.

But what she dreams is all attainable.

It is, don’t believe me?

Just dream,

And maybe eventually,

You’ll be able to see what she sees,

What I see.

-Angelina