If Only

If only

she were taught to read

she'd know right from wrong,

and not sit inside and weep

her only friend, a song.

If only

she had stood up then

when she still had time,

in her hand, a book and pen,

would have looked divine.

If only

growing up had meant,

thicker books in course,

she could read to her heart's content,

still making time for chores.

If only

people realised

how much more girls can do,

maybe things could change for good,

the world would be kinder, too.