No One’s Child

by Ava, a former foster youth and human trafficking survivor

When I took my first breath there was no air.

When I took my first steps there was no-one to cheer or proudly take a photo.

When I said my first word no-one heard it.

When I had my first bad dream no-one picked me up to soothe me

When I first bruised my knees in the playground there was no-one there to wipe my tears

On my first day of school, no-one was proud

The first time I got picked on, no-one stood up for me

First time I got pushed, no-one cared

First time my heart broke, no-one was there!

First job I got, no-one said well done

First suicide attempt, no-one by my bed when my eyes opened,

First sign of trouble, no-one wanted to know me …

First time I cried for help, no-one would have listened, why?

I am no-one’s child?