Dear child, This world Isn't Perfect.

Dear child,

This world isn't perfect.
Bad days, you will find.
War and tragedy will happen
in life from time to time.

People lose what matters most,
their families, their homes.
And although it can be scary,
please know you're not alone.

On days when things are terrible
and we all can't help but cry,
we sit together solemnly
and ask ourselves: "Why?"

It's hard to make sense of loss and pain
when tears are falling down
and it feels like anger and retribution
is where we all are bound.

But even though the days are dark
and the nights feel oh so cold,
there's something that you must remember
from now until you're old.

No matter what life brings you
or what terrible things you see,
you must hold on to hope and love
for that's your destiny.

Do not let hatred change you.
Do not absorb the fear.
Love will always reign supreme.
That's the truth of life, my dear.

In the chaos, you will find goodness
if you open up your eyes.
Out of ashes will spring helpers
to everyone's surprise.

So take heart,
mourn the fallen,
and hold on to what is true.

Together, we'll move through this storm
into a day anew.

- Bunmi Laditan