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A Natural Emptiness

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June 10, 2024, placed 14th in Craig Cornish's Empty Room Contest

 
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The closet, once crammed with the styles of youth, holds not so much as a coat hanger. Dents in the carpet are the only evidence that a bed, dresser, and nightstand filled the room. The frilly window dressings and wall art are gone. The truth weighs heavily on my heart; my sense of loss is intense as I gaze through tears at the emptiness. Five years ago, just down the hall, I stood in a room stripped bare of furniture, clothing, and all hints of the masculinity that had thrived there. The gloom set in as I visualized the weight-lifting equipment and the “man cave” corner that was always messy. I reminisced and pondered where the time went. My sentiments may resonate with others who revisit vacant spaces—the fathers and mothers now categorized as empty-nesters, who must accept the reality that vacant rooms are part of the natural scheme of things; they are survivable.

Copyright © | Year Posted 2024




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Date: 6/11/2024 6:31:00 PM
Dear Janice, indeed, your poem resonates with this empty-nester. Your poem expresses parental nostalgia and yearning with potent, wistful beauty. Captivating imagery. Congratulations for your win in Craig's contest. Warmest wishes.. ~Susan
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Janice Canerdy
Date: 6/12/2024 6:57:00 AM
Thanks SO much, Susan. Janice
Date: 6/5/2024 3:37:00 PM
Such feeling in this one. Great writing here, Janice. Vacant spaces can be eerie too
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Janice Canerdy
Date: 6/5/2024 8:23:00 PM
Thanks so much, Andrea. Janice
Date: 6/4/2024 8:12:00 AM
It's not until we get older that it hits us Janice, all that's left is an empty shell and memories. Hope you're keeping well. Tom
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Janice Canerdy
Date: 6/4/2024 11:51:00 AM
So true, Tom. I've been an empty nester for 22 years, yet on some days NOW, the fact hits harder than when she left~~to get married. THANKS. Janice

Book: Reflection on the Important Things