NINJA CHILDREN (R)

Before we began our campaign

Few were aware of the problems

Of having a ninja baby. Born stealthy,

Some of them are months old

Before their parents catch more

Than flighting glimpses of them.

There is something unnerving – believe me--

About a silent baby, dressed in black

Clinging next to the window at  3 A.M.

Squinting at the moon thoughtfully

Because it, perhaps, understands her.

No matter the parents,  your ninja child

Is, of course, Japanese. Communicating

Can be extremely difficult.

Nor can one use sitters who aren’t masters

Of a wide variety of martial arts