That moment the mother would never forget

as she sat to recall the events.

Of that day she went to the shopping centre

with her lively young son.

A child who was determined to walk not ride

hard to keep by her side.

Much busier than when they’d been before

containment not an easy task.

Bought him new shoes would not take off

stress levels were rising.

Saw a dress could not resist putting it on

did not see any wrong.

But in a lapse of thought for a few seconds

never checked he was close.

Seeing how the dress fitted in the mirror

it was nice feeling good.

Realising he was not sitting on the chair

screaming ran out of there!

Shouting her son’s name drawing attention

staff and customers came.

Security were soon fulfilling an active role

organising a major search.

Talking to her for information and support

as the small lad was sought.

Police were brought in as there was no sign

dad came to be at hand.

Both parents comforting each other in shock

as minutes turned in to hours.

The crowded building cleared of passers-by

quiet hoping to hear even a cry!

Cameras showed he had wandered outside

nobody had seen him since.

Concern was mounting for his well-being

he was only five two days ago.

Reporters gathered hungry for any news

ready to write their views.

The light was fading as the temperature fell

everyone hoping he was well.

In the manager’s office they couldn’t leave

waiting holding onto hope.

A liaison officer there to keep them in touch

as it was becoming too much!

A police unit searched a nearby open park

happily found the lad asleep.

Safely within an enclosed children’s slide

sending for mum and dad.

Both elated and eager to hug their boy

relieved and filled with joy.

But realising how lucky to find him unharmed

how easy to be a different story!

Watching now tucked up in his racing car bed

he could have been lost.

Their problems were put into context that day

when their child went astray!

The Foureyed Poet.