L
et me kiss away the frowns
as you kissed away the fears.
When rolling thunder flung me to your lap, your breast became my haven.
Now it’s my turn to snuggle you into sleep.
Sleep, Mamele, sleep.
These gnarled hands spoke of love more eloquently than words - fed, diapered, braided ribbons into my hair, made dolls out of rags, cookies of dough.
Unfurl them, like flowers to the sun.
Sleep, Mamele, sleep.
Feel safe with me.
I’ll protect you from sharp breeze or impatient eye.
Close your eyes, my aged child and when you no longer can see you’ll hear me softly croon.
Sleep Mamele, sleep.
- Bella Kudatsky