Ralph
I have Ralph, a teddy-bear,
always near in my despair.
He listens without a harsh word said
as I sob out loud my fears and dread.

He never judges or turns his back
when all I ever see is black.
He snuggles closest when I am down;
his softness wipes away my frown.

And when I'm happy, he is too;
my joy he multiplies by two.
He never argues when I'm wrong.
His loving gaze makes me feel strong.

And every night as I fall asleep
I know God and Ralph my soul will keep.

© Anthony W. Pahl
1st October /2000
used with permission