Dear little girl with the bruises, 

You have become the background of a chaotic city

Selling bracelets to provide 

Your box is full of books but no one is teaching you to read 

What are your bruises from little girl? 

The red hand marks on your chest 

Are they the result of a strange medical myth? 

Scraping coins on your body to bring out disease?

Or were my first thoughts correct? 

The thoughts that sent my heart to the ground

You are exposed to the unthinkable 

Roaming the streets with no defense 

Has your innocence and vulnerability attracted evil men?

Who will be your voice little girl? 

Who will tell you that you are beautiful 

without wanting anything in return? 

I sit with your bracelet on my wrist 

The one you chose with excitement and joy

I can’t help thinking of you little girl 

One of many unprotected in the night 

My payers are with you precious one 

LORD, protect her tonight