Little Girl Poem by Tobbie WhiteBird Crowe

I remember you as a small child,
Laughing, happy in God's light.
I remember how things made you smile,
A butterfly, flower or cat.

I remember the joy you felt
When the love you freely gave was returned.
I remember your gentleness, sweetness
Friendly to all you did meet.

Where did you go, little girl?
I can't seem to find where you are.
Where did you go, little girl?
I long so to have you back.

I remember you as you were growing.
The trees and rocks you did climb.
I remember your blue jeans and t-shirts,
Your bird eggs, bare feet and mud pies.

I remember the forts you and friends built,
How to graveyards on bikes you would ride.
I remember the horses you so loved,
How often you'd speak to your God.

Where did you go, little girl?
Fearless, carefree and believing.
Where did you go, little girl?
I wish I could get back your faith.

I remember you as a teen-ager,
With wonder and tears in your eyes.
I remember your long walks and questions
About life and creatures called boys.

I remember slumber parties, friends talking
Deep thoughts of love, peace, friendship.
I remember your art work and poetry
All searching for truth and the Lord.

Where did you go, little girl?
You've lost your way in the dark.
Where did you go, little girl?
Crying for lack of a song.

I remember you as a young woman,
Confused, mixed up and betrayed.
I remember your stumbling and groping,
For what you could not even guess.

I remember how often your fear came.
How deep you were beat, hurt and bitter.
I remember how you lost all your hope.
The dreams all turned to nightmares.

Where did you go, little girl?
Where is your innocence now?
Where did you go, little girl?
Loneliness has almost killed.

I remember how close to death
Many times it has seemed that you walked.
I remember how a friend brought you back,
But you were to blind to see where He was.

I remember how blackness was lifted,
In the clear, bright light of the son.
I remember your joy at seeing
Your friend was Jesus your Lord.

I know where you've been, little girl.
I'm so glad He's brought you back home.
I know you are me, little girl.
Thank you Jesus, once more.

(mid 1970s)