I coloured outside the lines, when I was the age of four.

Carved face on lined paper; a face that I’d adore.

Blonde flecked strands, translucent blue eyes

But left her soul untapped, as a virtuous surprise.

I coloured in her boots with the muddiest brown hue.

She’d jump in puddles and kick dirt in her least favourite shoe.

Instead of crafting daisy chains or chasing after boys,

Enveloped in the pages of a book or attacking her brother with toys.

I colour inside the lines, with specks of yellow bloom.

She’ll drink tea and eat cake even when she runs out of room.

I see her chasing dreams to protect her fellow beings.

Compassionate, impulsive and fierce; that’s the girl I’m seeing.

And though I coloured outside the lines that day, I continue to see her face:

Across the road, with glowing smile, your joy I will embrace.