Checked the timer in my hand because
When you least expect it,
Loneliness seizes you by the collar, flings
your bewildered form against the wall. You didn't realize it –
at first. You don't realize
anything quickly I'd say.
The red number, blinking on your answering machine,
neatly written letters lying neglected in a slovenly mound
inside a mailbox of forgotten existence, as if purposely kept
away from the world, ignored for a better future.
I payed attention, maybe you noticed.
Maybe you didn't. I don't know. But you know about
me moving to Newburgh, the pool in our garden and that new
high school I to go. The secrets I kept on purpose, holding on
to fake flowers, a framed picture and wearing the warm
sweater we bought last December.
Do you remember that time?
My thoughts trailing down our once shared neighborhood.
Our time limited to 10 months, not years. From the beginning
we filled our ears with laughter as if to drown out
the loud ticking of life.
But time gives and takes at a pace, I can no longer appreciate.
Cookies fresh from the oven are warm.
Winter is cold.
I just got a new letter set for Christmas with
no one to write to.
