you’ve embedded
tiny angels
within the keepsakes
you carry everywhere

to inhabit wallet
key chain
and jewelry

peace
through possession

called out to cheer you
with a touch of your fingers

but you weary of it
at night
lie naked in bed
lay your stuff aside
and sleep in poverty
without your usual fear

but if you rise
after midnight
disturbed by
something

it may be those angels
cutting loose
noisy and free

the manacles
that have bound them to your safety
have been unlocked
by your lack of attention

since you’re already up
you might as well try
to stay awake
without having your stuff around
to protect you

see if you can recapture
the peace you had
when you had nothing
in your sleep
and your dreams

only happens when I’m not looking

sounds oddly comforting,
as if some beloved pet was simply
chewing on a favorite toy

but all the pets are accounted for
when it happens again

something going about its business
with no concern for me

construction in the street can’t explain it
I’ve checked for mice and there’s no sign of them
and I know how the house settles — this
is different

and again, nothing to be seen in there
when I try to sneak up on it

so
what could be so calm
and thoughtful as to live beside me
without my being aware of it
having approved it
or having brought it here

it’s going to drive me crazy
until I know

so I’ll wait
do nothing
remain still
all day if necessary
until I have learned the truth