I was placed above you as a child
You used to giggle at my feathers and beads
You were safe when I watched you 31 years ago

I swayed softly above your crib
Protected you from the dark clouds that came at night
You slept peacefully as I guarded you

You hung me on the corner of your bed when you turned three
Your mother sang you softly to sleep beside me
The songs of her parents and her grandparents and those who came before

You hung me on your mirror when you were thirteen
Your new house was strange but I was your constant
You knew you were safe

At eighteen you placed me in a box
Took me with you across the country
You hung me on your bunk

Twenty-two and we move again
You place me on your mirror again
But now I protect you and another

Today you hang me on another crib
The little baby looks just like you
She sleeps peacefully just like you did, 31 years ago