THE NEXT TWO THINGS
After the last friends depart
empty glasses and cups
are collected and washed
the floor swept and that first night alone
the best I can do
is the next two things.
Feed the cat,
Make the tea.
Braid my hair
Discard the obvious junk mail.
This is how to get through
when the light and dark
are completely different
slants and hues,
when every moment's routine
holds the unexpected news
of your absence.
Feed the cat.
Empty the dish rack.
Fold the blanket.
Clear the answering machine.
Pick up the empty can
tossed out by the mailbox.
Bless the dust which
can be wiped away,
dirty laundry that can be washed clean
the path that can be shoveled clear of snow.
Bless the hungry cat.
Anonymous
For many of us facing loss, the night becomes the territory most difficult to get through.
Night is the time when we seek connection and protection and if not, then a quieting of the mind - often by foolish ways. Emptiness at night is a most intolerable feeling state.
