I could feel her restlessness in the night. I reached over to soothe her while searching for words to ease her broken heart.

“Do you remember when I used to sing to you? At night I would sing lullabies while holding you in my arms. You gazed up at me with those bright blue eyes of yours, looking up adoringly as you drifted away into slumber while I watched them carry you off to the land of dreams.”

A tear rolled down my cheek as I closed my eyes searching for a way to recapture those moments in time. I was so young and naive, thinking I could always protect her. Time marches on, babies grow into young women, and mothers no longer can fix everything with a kiss and hug. I felt her body relax.

“You always feared the darkness”, I whispered. Inside I knew I was the same. “Do you know darkness does not really exist?”

I could feel her breathing slowing as to hear what I am saying. Her voice softly asked, “What do you mean?”

I pulled my fingers through her hair as I kissed the top of her head like so many times before.

“Darkness is just the absence of light.”

She slowly said, “Isn’t that the point?”

My smile could not be seen by her as I continued, “Darkness is an illusion, my love. It doesn’t exist.”

“Mama, I am sure it exists. Everyone talks about darkness.”

“Sweetie, people talk about a lot of things. Have you ever actually seen darkness?”

She went quiet as she began to think about what I have said. “I guess I haven’t.”

I nodded, “It doesn’t exist. Darkness may seem overwhelming in size and scary, but really it is nothing at all. In the company of light it just fades away.”

Her voice sounded as innocent as the child I once cuddled replied, “then why does everyone talk about darkness?”

“Because they simply do not see the light,” as I kissed her on her forehead. “Now go to sleep, my darling, ” I whispered. “Never think of darkness. Focus on the good and all the love in your life.”

“Mama, will you do the same?” she asked while fighting the sleep.

“Of course, my darling. I certainly will as soon as I finish one more thing.”

Once I knew she was deep asleep, I climbed out of bed. I reached for my brushes and dipped them in the silvery paint I kept in a special jar. I painted in the night sky the moon that has always hung over her. Protected her from her fears and worries. Light made from my love.

I slipped back into bed next to her as I pulled her close. Once more the familiar songs from years ago fell from my lips…..

Lullaby, and good night, in the skies stars are bright.
May the moon’s silvery beams bring you sweet dreams.
Close your eyes now and rest, may these hours be blessed.
‘Til the sky’s bright with dawn, when you wake with a yawn.

Lullaby, and good night, you are mother’s delight.
I’ll protect you from harm, and you’ll wake in my arms.

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Written for and inspired by the Mindlovemisery’s Menagerie photo challenge. The above photo was provided to give us for inspiration.