Odyssey Of A Street Child Poem by Stephanie Apila

the barking dog for a father was worse than none
luxury given by a dark heart was only poisonous.

the chilly nights in the street could go unfelt with a brother to hold
you decided to rest and leave all the suffering to me.

how many times has death been a blessing?
if it's this once, i will hold the blessing that cost a brother.

my new father is a doctor, worries about me enough
to take me to pursue my dream in medical school and doesn't criticise.

not a lecture goes by without my brother's words in mind
"remember that you are always the smart one"

i love my work because the work is worth the results
all surgeons live sacrificially so people don't die on their watch.

i am now a great man surrounded by good waters
i head a brand new splendid family too.
STEPHANIE APILA