The drawing is about being picked on in elementary school and having no where to go except home to an abusive family. And of course, the little girl is hiding - something that I/we do so well.

Alone

In past pains she hid away
From family
From fear
From hurt
From tears
Hid under the bed
Inside the closet
Behind the table
Under the covers
And when they found her
In middle of night
Or in mother’s tears
Or in father’s rage
She hid within herself
A world of people
Yet inside alone
Protect yourself
Don’t get too close
Continue to hide
In play
In books
In art
In school
But hide
For inside it’s safe
You can be independent
Be all that he wanted
Succeed in the world
But alone you will travel
Down paths unknown
No one to stop you
Or blame you for troubles
Responsible for self
And no one else
Perhaps take a bear
For comfort if nothing
Else shy away
As you make it along
Step by step
Into the void
Of self.

By © Caroline Ann Martin
February 26, 2003
Posted with permission