Prickly and Proud

I'm a porcupine, prickly and round,

With thousands of quills from my head to the ground.

I waddle through forests with plenty of flair,

And never once worry about fixing my hair.

I don't need a comb.

I don't need a brush.

And when I get startled,

I don't have to rush.

I just puff myself up and proudly declare,

"Come any closer, if you dare!"

Hugs can be tricky.

Cuddles are worse.

And popping balloons?

Well, that's my curse.

I'm not very speedy.

I'm not very sleek.

I may have a carrot stuck to my cheek.

But I'm perfectly happy just being me,

The prickliest creature you ever did see.

So if life gets pokey

and you're having a day,

Be like a porcupine

and waddle your way.

Keep your quills high.

Keep being you.

And maybe keep Band-Aids nearby, too.