I Can See Your Claws, Be Proud Poem by Janine Alyssa Navarro

It isn’t darkness in your searching eyes
no, stay away from that tree
don’t perch upon it, stay on the ground.

You’ve no wings, you do not fly.
Stop being one with the shadows,
you are against it, our protector!

I can see your claws, be proud
the stripes on your firm back
make me want to wear you on me.

You do not curse the night
with your unreal hoots and stares,
you bless it with your silent snarls.

Sharpen your fangs, get ready to fight
be prepared to end this strange cold;
you’re not weak, you’re my strength.