Ode to stuffed animals

They are stuffed
 full of fluff,
confronted with love
and care.

the first time
I lay eyes on you,
was at the shop
of built for stuffed toys

when we select you
we want you perfect
no rips,
no tears,
and no missing pieces.

the fur from your body
lay on the leathery
cold and bumpy car seat.
you are fuzzy,
warm, comforting,
and always there.

your image takes form
of animals, creatures, and imagination.
We keep you close to us for warmth,
and to protect us
from nightmares.

the cuteness you bring
is enough to satisfy any sad day.
we call you names
to give you meaning.

we then place you
in our rooms for the day,
you stay still until
we return.

As night draws near
and the day comes to a close,
we see an image
we most find comforting
in the stillness of the dark
on the bed you lay
guarding our belongings
from dangerous things.

we think of you as
a toy, but your much
much more than a toy
you are our stuffed animal
and nothing will change.