As Solitude Rains

```` As the sunset of life beckons me in marmalade farewells, orange sherbet adieus, I stroll in uneven footsteps, not sure of the bridges I crossed or those burned in the process Alone I follow the polished pebbles scattered along this lethargic path, nary a word or whisper, only my thoughts peering back on what was, stumbling when your memory finds me Dark tangerine hints touch the sky for the day, this day, my life shall soon disappear beyond the slumbering valley, diminishing into a minute speck hiding in plain sight where no one can see or care I listen unsuccessfully for its sad melody of fractured bar chords and minor notes when I again feel you invading my soul, reaching down from my heart, the place you still reside Inaudible tones offer I am sorry for the pain, the weight I did not realize I carried, collections of hurt in shiny bows and pretty paper that sent you away from me, as solitude now rains in gift-wrapped droplets Softer my dampened steps move towards that straight line illusion summoning, darker still as minutes pass for I know this end is mine alone as the moon crests the horizon and I slowly fade away For the Silence poetry contest Sponsored by: Silent One