The Dark Shelf

Doubtless, we all have our demons

Due to excuses or due to reasons

Darkness seems to lie in wait

In every shadow that we make

Children, though they bring a smile

Make demons line up single-file

As much a shield as I’d like to be

A monster may fall on them from me

What is it we are to do

When darkness spreads like the flu

Show the little ones how you present yourself

Then lovingly, carefully, show the ones stored on your shelf