On holiday in Cyprus

a few years ago I was sunbathing by the pool and spotted a lovely looking little girl who was with a very elderly Cypriot lady who I think was her grandmother and also a couple who I presumed to be her parents.  The parents went away leaving the little girl to look out for the frail older lady.  At one point the little girl stood shyly watching some British kids play pool and table tennis and I felt so sorry for her as she obviously also wanted to play. I snapped a photo of her then from watching her this poem was born.

Lonely Old Child

She stands there, watching in the wings

Her limbs long and gangly like a new born colt

Eyes are dark and wide like those of a fawn

Clinging with one hand to the twigs of a bush

Hidden partly by the dense dark leaves

Head bowed watching and waiting

Almost willing the others to see her

Yet still wishing to remain hidden

Wanting to play ball with them

But too scared and shy to join in

Totally unaware that she is being watched

Silently wanting to be part of the group

The other children oblivious to their audience

Play noisily in the shade, splashing in the pool

Their chatter a stark contrast to this one

This young seemingly lost soul so sad and alone

Then, the harsh voice of the grandmother

Calls the girl to her side to do her bidding

The moment is gone, the child turns away

Sadness etched on her pretty gaunt face

No play, nor toys, games are not for her

Her life lies in caring for the old woman

Fetching and carrying, providing company

Being there to cater to her every need

Young caring for old, this lonely old child