NINJA CHILDREN

Before we began our campaign

Few were aware of the problems

Of having a ninja baby. Born stealthy

Some of them are three months old

Before their parents catch more

Than the most flighting glimpse 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 thoughtfully at the moon

As if only it 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