I open the line, but I do not know
that I am supposed to say anything.

I open the line and all I can think of
is describing how far I am from where
I thought I would be.

I open the line and think about closing it
at once. The space yawns before me.

I open the line and all I can think of is messages to others
who will not understand how critical it is
that they should respond swiftly.

I open the line. It does not matter.
I am desperate. It does not matter.

I open the line and I am lost
amid the seas that storm the beach
where I choose to stand, as if there was a choice.

I open the line and turn toward those I love.
I look at them, then away when they do not see me.

I close the line and wipe my hands and look away.
I wipe my knees clean and turn
toward a dark morning.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
T