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
Copyright © Richard Lamoureux | Year Posted 2012
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