In the mirror she finds glimpses of him

the complexion of her skin, the curls in her hair

the fullness of her lips, sketches images of him 

As she tries to reconcile with never knowing him

Never knowing how it feels to be daddy’s little girl 

She is forced to walk in a cold world 

finding warmth and refuge in another’s arms

Learning that the silhouette of derelict paternal obligations

craters the self-image of neglected little girls

painting a distorted portrait of love

Daddy’s little girl 

grows up to be a woman

not quite healed, 

painting her face with courage and strength

trying desperately to camouflage pain

hoping her façade will not reveal

that his vacancy still haunts

as it blemishes her glee

warping the way she receives 

and dispenses love

Daddy’s little girl 

never knew the warmth of his hug 

yet still chases the comfort of his love