If Only

I tried to help you but I just couldn’t win
The wall you had built would not let me in
Your lifestyle was doomed from its very start
Soon as you locked all the doors to your heart
I watched you in struggle as deeper you went
Tried hard to hold you but you wouldn’t relent
Your life was not easy this I cannot deny
But all of the rules you seemed to defy
You were too young, so much yet to learn
Fast times and turmoil your spirit did yearn
The face of an angel, a soul that turned black
Once path was taken you wouldn’t turn back
Drugs and false friends had weakened your mind
All things of importance were soon left behind
I kneel by your prone form crying into the night
Why wouldn’t you allow me to help win this fight
Now on this sidewalk you’ve come to your end
With elastic-tied arm, needle deep in its bend
With shaking fingers I close your blank stare
Holding your cold hand I weep silent prayer
Tears shatter on pavement like porcelain rain
Arms pull you close as I scream out my pain
Rocking you gently, still hugging you tight
Sobbing in anguish, crying out to the night
A life of rich promise has been taken this night
Because fear and sorrow had removed your sight
If only your burdens hadn’t been so hard to bear
If only I had held you, told you how much I cared

Brian Beaudry


I wrote this for an aquaintance who lost his daughter to a drug overdose.Let your children know you love them, every day!!