What's Been Lost

i n n o c e n c e - - - l o s t

Children cut the tips of their fingers

on sharp branches in the way of berries

and the soles of their feet

on glass on the ground in the way of rocks

and fallen toys.

Pain in innocence.

Adults know the branches slap

and the berries are sour.

The glass on the ground doesn't get to taste blood.

Rocks are kicked aside and cigarettes

take the place of fallen toys.

Innocence is lost.