A Memory

the beating never ends
the pulse of endless pain
it shadows every step she takes
in sunlight or in rain

When the thought of standing tall
and the thought of running fast
all a distant memory of a not so distant past

She twirled on toes and danced with grace
Until her feet wore out
Upon the deck of ships
When she could only crawl and shout

Why was this gift taken from her
What was it that she did
And how now would she survive
alone and invalid