Follow the Laughter

This should be a sad place There are no playgrounds, schools One tap for an intire village Their toys are rocks and sticks There is a skinny goat running beside them I hear laughter such sweet laughter running jumping squeals of delight bright smiles beaming So much unadulterated joy chasing shadows on dusty ground The slapping of bare feet No Nike's or Air Jordans to aid their flight Happiness in a place where none should exist This should be a happy place Playgrounds, schools A bathroom for almost every room in the house No need to share more than enough Toys, computers, smartphones Lonely dog sits in corner chewing his bone Children texting Tired from all their programs What if they don't get into the right schools? Futures planned Present planned to the last remaining second Fast tracked to depression Don't dissapoint Mom and Dad Best coaches, best teachers, best clothes Anything they desire Listen, listen Where is the laughter Who else is part of their tribe who cares if you live or die Sadness in a place where none should exist We think we are the fortunate ones Still where is the laughter beyond the painted smiles