the loving smother

some can't cut

the apron strings, 

they need to

stay close

to the offspring.

there when needed

with cash

or food, or clothes to be

washed,

grievances to be

soothed.

the mother or father

smothering

the child,

never quite letting 

them go, to be alone,

or grow.

casting a long dark

shadow 

that smothers them

until

one dies, or 

eventually grows old.