Misunderstood Hedgehog

Life as a hedgehog...my most misunderstood pet.

When you look at me what do you see?

A prickly ball, a huffing rock, a spiny urchin?

Appearances, my friend, can be deceiving

For I am just misunderstood.

Work to be my friend and I will reward you,

Win my trust and surely it'll be worth it,

The best things in life are free,

And our time together is exactly that.

If you show me you are different from the rest,

That you aren't judging me and using me,

I will give you my friendship and trust,

And this will be like nothing you've had before.

I'll peek at you first, so I can see my new friend,

Then I'll climb in your lap and lick your hands.

If you show me new places and people I may surprise you,

But I'm just a scared-y cat and you have to encourage me.

If you treat me like a pet I'll be just that,

But treat me like a friend and be rewarded.

Under these spines you'll be happy to find,

Is a soft furry belly and curious eyes.

I am just a hedgehog, misunderstood.

But if I find the right person I can be more,

A source of joy, a comedian, a listener, a friend.

If you put aside my differences I'll put aside yours.

Author's Note

I wanted to give my hedgehog so fame, for he and his species is so misunderstood! Hedgehogs rule!