HOPEFUL ORPHANS (May the LORD Be With Them)

Here we are, as young as we are.
When we grew up,
We were told by someone that,
We are orphans.

We do not understand
What they mean by "orphans".
But we realise we are missing
The warmth of some people
We do not know:
We are missing their company;
Their pampering.

Sometimes we see our fellow children
With some grown ups
They call "Mummy" and "Daddy".
They buy them toys and toffees,
But we are missing the company of
"Mummy" and "Daddy".

During christmas, we see them;
In raining seasons, we see them.
They go out together;
They come home together;
They cook and eat together;
They share love together.
But here we are, as young as we are,
Missing the company of
"Mummy" and "Daddy".

Where are they?
Where have they gone to?
Have they travelled?
To where?
When will they come home?
When will we see them?
Who will take care of us?
Ah, we are missing the company of
"Mummy" and "Daddy".

So take care of us, O God:
We are lonely; we are odd.
They said with no "Mummy", we can't cope;
But with You as our "Daddy", we have hope!

ISAAC ESSOUN