Take me back

Drinking and Driving - A sobering poem

Death of an innocent

I went to a party, Mum, I remembered what you said.
You told me not to drink, Mum, so I drank coke instead.
I really felt proud inside, Mum, the way you said I would.
I didn't drink and drive, Mum, even though the others said I should.
I know I did the right thing, Mum, I know you are always right. 

Now the party is finally ending, Mum, as everyone is driving out of sight.

As I got into my car, Mum, 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, Mum, but as I pulled out into the road,

the other car didn't see me, Mum, and hit me like a load.

As I lay there on the pavement, Mum, I hear the policeman say,

the other guy is drunk, Mum, and now I'm the one who will pay.

I'm lying here dying, Mum.  I wish you'd get here soon.

How could this happen to me, Mum?  My life just burst like a balloon.

There is blood all around me, Mum, and most of it is mine.

I hear the paramedic say, Mum, I'll die in a short time.

I just wanted to tell you, Mum, I swear I didn't drink.

It was the others, Mum.  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, Mum?  It can ruin your whole life.

I'm feeling sharp pains now.  Pains just like a knife.

The guy who hit me is walking, Mum, 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, Mum. Tell Daddy to be brave.

And when I go to heaven, Mum, put "Daddy's Girl" on my grave

Someone should have told him, Mum, not to drink and drive.

If only they had told him, Mum, I would still be alive.

My breath is getting shorter, Mum. I'm becoming very scared.

Please don't cry for me, Mum.  When I needed you, you were always there.

I have one last question, Mum, before I say good bye.

I didn't drink and drive, so why am I the one to die?

Anon

Postal address

29 Claire Street. Newmains. Wisha w. Motherwell. Scotland. ML2 9DF

Tel - 01698 383492

Electronic mail

Liz@lizdenholm.co.uk