The Illusion of Safety

 I've been searching, life's long quest,

Though shadows of a childhood distressed. 

Innocence taken, youth betrayed,

A child in turmoil bared naked and afraid. 

Vulnerable in ways unknown

A soul stripped bare by experiences for the grown. 

Craving safety, a gentle embrace,

Free from harm, a sacred space. 

Adulthood whispers to a child a bitter truth,

Safety is a promise, not given in youth. 

Yet the idea, so lovely, it stays,

Elusive, yet bright, like the sun's soft rays.