A Death Of An Innocent

  
I went to a party, Mom, I remembered what you said.
You told me not to drink, Mom, so I drank soda instead.
I really felt proud inside, Mom, the way you said I would.
I didn't drink and drive, Mom, even though the others said I should.
 
I know I did the right thing, Mom, I know you are always right.
Now the party is finally ending, Mom, as everyone is driving out of sight.
As I got into my car, Mom, I knew I'd get home in one piece.
Because of the way you raised me, so responsible and sweet.
 
I started to drive away, Mom, but as I pulled out into the road,
The other car didn't see me, Mom, and hit me like a load.
As I lay there on the pavement, Mom, I hear the policeman say,
The other guy is drunk, Mom, and now I'm the one who will pay.
 
I'm lying here dying, Mom.  I wish you'd get here soon.
How could this happen to me, Mom?  My life just burst like a balloon.
There is blood all around me, Mom, and most of it is mine.
I hear the medic say, Mom, I'll die in a short time.
 
I just wanted to tell you, Mom, I swear I didn't drink.
It was the others, Mom.  The others didn't think.
He was probably at the same party as I.
The only difference is, he drank and I will die.
 
Why do people drink, Mom?  It can ruin you whole life.
I'm feeling sharp pains now.  Pains just like a knife.
The guy who hit me is walking, Mom, and I don't think it's fair.
I'm lying here dying and all he can do is stare.
 
Tell my brother not to cry, Mom.  Tell Daddy to be brave.
And when I go to Heaven, Mom, put "Daddy's Girl" on my grave.
Someone should have told him, Mom, not to drink and drive.
If only they had told him, Mom, I would still be alive.
 
My breath is getting shorter, Mom.  I'm becoming very scared.
Please don't cry for me, Mom.  When I needed you, you were always there.
I have one last question, Mom, before I say good bye.
I didn't drink and drive, so why am I the one to die?
 
-David Riddell

  
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