My Light is Gone

My light has gone out
I stand on a forgotten shore;
no one comes this way anymore.

I was once a safe harbour,
but they only stopped
on the way to someone else.
They never stayed long enough to drop anchor;
took advantage of my generous nature,
stole my oil for their own gain.

I weathered storms, gales and massive waves.
Spent sleepless nights
slaving to keep the fire burning.
Because I was the light giver.
My light stretched out into the darkness
but was rarely reflected back.

The years took their toll.
The cracks began to show,
letting the cold wind and damp soak through.
Rotting timbers, paint peeling -
rust-soaked tears staining my sides,
my fuel ran low.
Too hazardous now,
they learned to steer clear,
and avoid my shore.
They speed passed,
without a second glance.

My last flickering light called out,
to those lost at sea.
They hoped for rescue,
but perished
on the rocks that surround me.

My light has gone out.
I am an empty shell.
The waves keep coming,
eroding me.
I know not how long I can hold my ground,
before the ocean reclaims me.