How To Fall Asleep

When my toddler calls me after bedtime

because he is nervous for tomorrow,

or excited about games or playtime,

and his burgeoning mind won’t allow sleep,

I tell him to close his eyes and breath deep,

and to think of what makes him happiest

because happy thoughts will give him good dreams.

This seems to work, and he drifts off smiling.

I’m usually awake until two

reading, writing, or seeking distractions

until I can no longer stay conscious.

This is the only way I fall asleep.

The alternative is to lie awake

because I am nervous for tomorrow

and excitement is rare as dopamine

to a reluctant, stress-addled, adult mind.