Let Down

Let down when it counted,
Left to fend alone.
Left to shoulder way too much,
The heart no longer home.

Vaulted to a downward slope,
Your burdens shunned as one.
Made to grow up way too fast,
Let innocence be gone.

Forced to tip toe, duck and swerve
Always hoping for the lull.
Fearful of the next reverse,
Never knowing who'll pay the toll.

Guilty all, no slate of white,
No purity of heart.
No excuses worthy of acceptance
For a life that's torn apart.

We let you down, no ifs or buts,
The veil of protection dented.
Innocent victims of a civil war,
All for adult feelings vented.

And where to now? How do I kindle
The warming flames of constant?
How do you fight without the pain
And leave your hurting dormant?

I can't pretend to know the answer,
But promise I for certain,
To practice all to keep you safe,
Your father, guardian and warden.