WIDOW
Each day she rises to a hundred thresholds.
Stares forward. Stares backward. Feels the tension.
That daily tug of war that leaves a heart
already torn apart so much harder to heal.
Shall I stay or shall I go?
Do I keep it or give it away?
Can I lie here…maybe never get up?
Is he nearby? Was that just him
Or coincidence?
Can I smile or is that betrayal? Will I be alone or find companionship?
How do I bear what feels unbearable?
Will I stay the same person or become…what?
Every morning she rises to both good-bye and hello. One day she will rise and greet only herself.
Cindy Steffen 2017