SHE COMES TO ME NAKED
BY Penny Perez
She comes to me naked with a dreamy-looking face
Around the door she peeks to see if I'm in my place
She tilts her head toward me and gives a little smile
How often have I seen this face . . .it's been a little while
I know well what she asks of me - she does it every day
And asks it of another should I be far away
This day however, is such a special time for me
For in my head these words are formed for all of you to see
Her eyes are brown and sparkling - hers have the light of joy
She doesn't know the alphabet to her it's nothing but a noise
She cannot read or add things up - but knows just what she wants
For she is Guadalupe who with her smile does taunt
Maybe you thought this lovely girl in her nakedness
Had popped herhead just through my door for a loving kiss
A touch, perhaps a fling, but the dear girl with the face of flower
Is just here to ask me -- "can I please take a shower?
Bless her little eyes and face, her stubby fingers and stout frame
Keep her safe from those who shout each ugly nasty name
For written on His hand and heart before the world began
Was a name we know not - scribed in the Book of the Lamb
Precious are those who are not bright, can't read or write a book
Who offer us their simple joy, when with a smile we look
At a face so many children have and share with glee and singing
No accident of birth are they - for the Father's love they're bringing.
This poem is dedicated to Maria Guadalupe (Lupe) who shares her life with us.