Around the corner, I see his little face--
Bright-eyed with his big grin.
Waving at him, I smile as he runs to me.

He was the little menace of the class.
But I loved him and he became
My sweetheart.

We laughed and played.
He began to love me too.
His smiles got bigger, his trust even more.

He was not that little menace anymore.
He was loved and he knew it well.

My last day came.
Giving him the longest hug, I wanted to cry.
Not knowing I would never come back,
He struggled to get free.
With his little fingers, he tickled my tummy
And smiled again.

Remembering his smile, I pray that
He receives the love he deserves,
Filling his empty little heart.