Prow-Ling

by Steve Mathisen
(Edmonds, Wa)

My name is Prow-Ling
I am the mighty warrior
I am the defender of the child
One scowl from my fearsome face causes the seven dragons of sleeplessness to flee in terror
One glance from my terrible eyes chases away the demons of bad dreams
I look over the little one as she sleeps and keep her safe from the deadly hordes that inhabit the darkness, especially the deadly bed snakes that are kept in check by the fearsome bunnies of dust by day.
She trusts in my strength and my honor to protect her while she sleeps
She depends on my courage and fortitude to keep her safe from all the evil ones as she dreams her pretty dreams.
I am ever watchful on her account, even as she rests her head on me and uses me as her pillow.
I am Prow-Ling
I am the mighty warrior
I am the defender of the child
And her favorite pillow.