ode to my littlest

If your older brother tells you to stand in the goal
while he practices his slapshot,
don't do it.

If your sister tells you that you might have a disease
if your hand is bigger than your face,
don't put your hand to your face.

If the tooth fairy forgets you lost your tooth
and your brother and sister tell you she's not real,
don't believe them.

If your mother makes some green gooey goop
and puts it on your plate,
don't eat it.

If you want to wear your red hoodie sweatshirt
with your bright pink flood pants
and mismatched socks,
don't let anyone stop you.

Be you
as only you can.