A Painting by Alec

Walking back from the store
Found you, laying, discarded on the sidewalk
People stepping past, not caring, not bothering
To stop
To see
Colors swirled around in a childish sunset
Black stick shapes for trees and birds
Rocks and grass
A desert sunset as seen through the eyes of a child
I stopped and lowering my bags of newly purchured gorcheries
Paused in my hum-drum exsistance to bend down
I picked you up and brushed off the dirt of rejection
Rescued you from the cold and merciless sidewalk
As I beheld the name written in youthful penmanship
I had to wonder about the youngster who created you
Did they love you well?
Did they put that love into each brush stroke, each dabbing of hue?
I believe they did
I believe that you were once loved as unconditionally as only a child can love
Were you blown from the back of an unzipped backpack
While bouncing up a running child's back as they rushed to keep
Up with friends who were just a little bit faster than they?
Hair tossing in the winter breeze
Cheeks and nose blushing with cold
Or did something more sinister take place?
A rush of events too horrid to even imagine.
Crying child, reaching out from the window of a fleeing car, reaching for you
As you propelled from their hands onto the sidewalk, there to wait
Until I happened upon you
And picked you up
I wonder what happened to the child who painted you
The artist
I hope they are being as loved right now as I love you
For no one deserves to be thrown away
Or lost without hope of being found
So, upon my fridge you shall reside
And offer a mystery to those who view you