Looking Out

You linger outside 

always questioning why

when the answer’s inside

where uncertainty dies

Your world of approval

and life of acclaim

provide little comfort

when there’s no one to blame

You told me it mattered

you told me you cared

but as glad handers turn 

almost nothing got shared

So, I’ll stay in the moment

 inside looking out

knowing what I’m in search of

leaves no room for doubt

As your memories die silent

 no one to hold dear

what’s lost to remembrance

—abandoned in fear

(Villanova Pennsylvania: December, 2021)