Monsters

MONSTERS

At bed time I soothe

“There are no monsters

under your bed.”

“In my closet?’ 

He asks in a timid voice.

“No, there are no monsters

in your closet

or

in the hallway.

You are safe tonight

and it is time to sleep my boy.”

I tuck his covers up to his chin,

say good night,

leave the turtle night light on,

and

leave the door open

just a crack.

I sigh.

Knowing

The monsters are out there

in the real world.

Waiting.

I don’t want him to ever

grow up.