V1

She sat doe-eyed on the side of the world, just outside of Ragged Point,

Her hair pulled up in a messy bun, tucked behind her ear a tiny joint.

She said hello as we wandered by and asked if we could give her a ride.

A familiar spark in her hazel eyes;  her request could not be denied.

CHORUS

That’s the day we met Melissa, Like a daughter born in spring.

That’s the day we met Melissa, A lonely angel with a broken wing.

V2

She’d made it south from east of the bay with some friends in no more than name.

They had left her near the town of Fernwood. She was lost but felt no shame.

She had left her home last early winter when her righteous parents told her to go. 

There wasn’t room for any questions. They couldn’t hear through their faux halos.

CHORUS

That’s the day we met Melissa, Like a daughter born in spring.

That’s the day we met Melissa. A lonely angel with a broken wing.

V3

Her mind was so full of wonder, could not be shoved into a mold.

So she chose to travel freely. She said, “It fills my heart with gold.

I decide to love whom I choose, and not be shamed for who I’ll be.

Won’t be burdened with their religion. I’ll be on the road where I’m free.”

CHORUS

That’s the day we met Melissa, Like a daughter born in spring.

That’s the day we met Melissa. A lonely angel with a broken wing.

V4

We asked her what it was she needed…  Some cash or a place to stay?

She smiled through those hazel eyes; said our kindness was enough today.

We dropped her off just west of Ojai.  She just smiled and walked away.

I know her wing has been mended.  She dances in my mind each day.

CHORUS

That’s the day we met Melissa, Like a daughter born in spring.

That’s the day we met Melissa. A lonely angel with a broken wing.

I know her wing has been mended.  She dances in my mind each day.

 ©2021 Jason Manville – All Rights Reserved