Today the birds sing   With all their morning glory,   And for once, I'm withdrawn   From life's bitter story.   I head into life's light   Today, so good-hearted and anew   And finally no cruel soul, or   Ugly spirit will ever take its cue.   Protected well by my smile   And my friendly face,   Not even the coldest remark   Could ever take this warming place.   And though, maybe tomorrow   This place I'll never see,   But, at least, I have something   This sweet, faint memory.   Megan Fernandes (12 y.)