In the heart of a child,
Our future's waiting there.
They're playing, free, and wild,
Nothing but time to share
Laughter and innocence,
They live naturally
With no need of defense,
They spend time happily.

In alleys, yards and parks,
Their laughter and delight
Send out radiant sparks
That shine into the night.

These innocent children
Hold the world in their hand
When grown to women - men.

We should all understand,
In the heart of a child,
Our future's waiting there.
To keep them sweet and mild,
Should be our constant prayer.

When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you hang my first painting on the refrigerator, and immediately I wanted to paint another one.
When you thought I wasn't looking I saw you feed a stray cat, and I learned that it was good to be kind to animals.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you make my favorite cake for me and I learned that the little things can be the special things in life.
When you thought I wasn't looking I heard you say a prayer, and I knew there is a God I could always talk to and I learned to trust in God.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you make a meal and take it to a friend who was sick, and I learned that we all have to help take care of each other.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you give of your time and money to help people who had nothing and I learned that those who have something should give to those who don't.

When you thought I wasn't looking, I felt you come into my room and kiss me good night and I felt loved and safe.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you take care of our house and everyone in it and I learned we have to take care of what we are given.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw how you handled your responsibilities even when you didn't feel good, and I learned that I would have to be responsible when I grow up.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw tears come from your eyes and I learned that sometimes things hurt, but it's all right to cry.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw that you cared so much for me and I wanted to be everything that I could be.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I learned most of life's lessons that I need to know to be a good and productive person when I grow up.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I looked at you and wanted to say, "Thanks for all the things I saw when you thought I wasn't looking.'"

Each of us, as parent or friend, influences the life of a child.