I Sit Alone

I Sit Alone

I sit on my bench not far from life,

Not far from the goings on of those who pass from sight.

Alone now with my memories that seek to calm me,

Like the spirits that speak, or I happen to see.

Surrendering to life’s images and sounds I hear,

Their voices whisper gently in my ear.

Telling me of their loves, lives they have lived,

Of the times they shared, of the faith they believed.

I laugh along with them, remembering childhood backyards,

Glass bottles filled with sand, sunlight’s bright shards.

They tell me of a far away place and a forgotten time,

One that I use to embrace, one I hold deep within my mind.

Those times, those memories I resurrect within me,

I’ll never relinquish them no matter the pleas.

Within my mind, they still exist, forever to embrace,

Regardless that time has changed the place.

As I sit here watching, my mind plays its games,

Recalling the times, the people, and smiles to reclaim.

Those memories of gatherings in those places and times,

Are far more important to me than riches of any kind.

Sitting upon my bench and considering these tales

Of hope and mercy and faith that never fails.

For it’s the unseen ghost who I’ve learned to trust,

Visitors in the shadows, assuring me so much.

My time has been well spent as I’ve often said,

Sharing my lifetime’s visions in my head.

From welcomed daybreak to evening’s reluctant farewell,

I’ve told my secrets, victories, and tears that I wear.

Without my bench giving me time to compare,

All that has happened, both good and bad to share.

It wouldn’t have meant as much to me as it does now,

As I prepare to leave my bench behind, this I avow.

By Dan R. Fowler

For: Astrid