One pair of too small shoes
Only enough food for one
But it’s split between four
Four skinny, grubby but still lovely children

Their mamma works all day
The oldest girl cares for her brothers
Breakfast, school, dinner is her work
Pretending to be strong, but torn inside

Who should she hurt more
Confine herself or leave the family
College is in her grasp, free, completely paid
Her mamma is strong but can she leave her

In her room she stares confused
At her acceptance letter in hand
Quietly mamma sees her distress
She loves her little girl but she’s not little anymore

Go to school in the fall
We’ll be fine and get through as always
Two months later they say good-bye
They depart with a hug but with hope in their eyes