Wayward Child

by Cheryl Merrick

My heart aches for you
as I watch you
learn from your own experience
that wickedness never was happiness.

Feeling you suffer
the consequences of your acts,
I long to comfort you
but I cannot,
for in your quest for freedom
you have willfully stepped
off the only path
that could have brought
you happiness.


In their anxious concern,
your siblings beg us
to make you do what is right,
but we cannot force you for
you have your freedom.

You are an adult now,
and within you,
you know what is true and right.

Until you choose
to live the principles
which bring happiness,
all we can do is watch and pray,
and love you with an aching heart.