it's 5 a.m. now

cub

3:02 a.m.

i was raised on belts, sticks and boots and i took them for the both of us because it meant you wouldn't have to cave back into yourself with a reddened wet face
it numbed any kind of sting

i was a daughter with a fear of the dark with a father who yanked and stomped on night lights but still i navigated through the endless nothingness to guide you back to dreams even if i couldn't see it
i could feel it
the fear and the relief

i was taught to never comfort a crying child but i still climbed into your crib and cradled you to silence

i raised a good, selfless heart even as a small child
you were my greatest feat

.s