Searching For That Little Girl Poem by louis rams

As I looked - she was walking away
Not a word did she say.
There was no -” I’m sorry for doing you wrong”.
But that drug impulse was mighty strong.
I was having withdrawal pains
And of that I’m not ashamed.

You said to a rehab you would go
But that day you didn’t show.
The drugs may ease the pain
But your life will never be the same.

You started off smoking grass
But that high didn’t last.
Next you started snorting cocaine
And after a while that was lame.

Then you decided to go to crack
And after that there was no turning back.
You started stealing from family and friends
This was the beginning - there was no end.

Now you’re selling your body on the street
Just so you could get that treat.

Did you ever say to yourself as a child
“ I want to be a junkie_ that’s my style”.
You dreamt of satin and lace
And walking with purpose - and with grace.

Look for that child that’s buried in your mind
“ you can do it, it just takes time”.
Don’t do it for me or for family
Do it for that little girl who is
Wandering in your mind
She will be with you till the end of time.