I See a Child (Let Her be Free)

I see a child running uphill
through winding mountain streets
donned in clothes as white as snow
with nothing on her feet.

She laughs as her hair blows backward
silklike as flags in the wind
looking behind her and laughing
as she's chased by a jubilant friend.

I only saw her for a moment
but I'll always carry this plea -
Oh Lord my God, protect this girl
I pray she is always that free.

I pray she is always running uphill
and never once being dragged down
I pray that her clothes stay snowlike until
they are woven into her wedding gown.

I pray the ones that are chasing her
will always be innocent friends
and the only time that she ever feels trapped
is when they are playing pretend.

I'll smile when I think of that child
as pure and playful as can be
and I'll pray every day that is how she will stay -
I pray she is always that free.

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