there are those nights.

there are those nights
all i want to do
is only worry about myself.
fall into bed and sleep.
and sleep.

there are those nights
i'm worn thin.
stretched from a day of
keeping you safe, fed, happy.
worrying.

there are those nights
when sleep won't come easy.
perhaps a bad dream?
nothing, not daddy, no cup of milk,
nothing but mother will do.

there are those nights
your little body tucked into mine.
hot breath on my neck
long lashes tickling my cheek.
when we rock together and i sing.

these are those nights
i am most myself.
dark thoughts kept at bay.
with you in my arms,
i am safe, too.