Chairs

Depression is one of those empty chairs. Sit on a chair, empty except for my body. I’m here! In an auditorium. Suddenly, there’s other people clapping all around. Depression is one of those people. Maybe me. Clapping slowly, hoping no one notices. Sit in a chair. Everyone is clapping for me. As I walk toward the bathroom. Everyone is clapping for hours. When I come back, they are still clapping in unison. I have to go home. Walk away, but I circle back. Depression is one of those empty chairs. With a spotlight on it. I always crawl back. Clapping more and more slowly. As the energy rises. Depression can only be one of us. Sit in a chair, silently. Although I want to shout, “That’s enough!” While there’s a standing ovation. Depression can only be, A person who is slouching like me.