You Are Never the Only One

When the world moves on and you feel forgotten – you are never the only one.

The meals dropped off, the condolences sent – you are never the only one.

Time ticks by, the food has gone rotten – you are never the only one.

No more check-ins, no more how do you do’s, and even the dog is lonesome for you – you are never the only one.

When showering takes work, and self-care feels like a luxury – you are never the only one.

How did it get this way?  Who was I before all this? I don’t even know anymore.

Why do you look at me that way? Why do you say the things you do? What are you trying to prove?

Some people just can’t leave well enough alone and yet, I wish they’d know what to do.

This heart of mine is shattered. The tears all but washed me away. But I hang on another day because there’s still a glimmer of hope within me that’s not yet dead today.

So many times I sat there, the same kitchen table, the same cigarettes. The same drink in the bottle and the same voice in my head.

But here you are, sitting with me. I had forgotten about you – it’s been so long.

“Why did you abandon me? Why did you leave me alone?”

“I never did,” – a reply.

“Then why do I feel so alone?”

“I watched you grow up, carrying your wounds and your swords. Keeping everyone at arm’s length and too ashamed to go home. Keeping your armor on tight and your heart bound and closed.”

All of those years you watched me and you never said a word. I was screaming inside and you did nothing when everything felt a blur.

What do you mean? I’ve always been with you. I’ve just been waiting to be heard. 

 

– A random grief-riff by me on this day. Even when you feel alone, you’re never the only one. Your inner-child is waiting to be heard and there’s always a friend who’s grieving, too. –