Useless

I still wake to crisp morning air, but hope dissolves right then and there. As I open my eyes, I realize and sigh— another day begins, and I wonder why. Time drags slowly—no spark, no fun, another long cold day, no warmth, no sun. No ambition, no energy, nothing gets done— just me and this silence I cannot outrun. I used to be needed, I used to be known; now I just sit here, invisible, alone. No one calls, no one checks in— like I vanished the moment my strength grew thin. They don’t see the fight it takes just to stand, they go on living, no one lends a hand. I can’t cook a meal, can’t walk very far— it hurts to reach for the light or get in the car. No, I’m not lazy, and I haven’t quite quit— I’m just being erased, bit by bit. Hope isn’t coming; please, don’t lie to my face— it packed up and left without leaving a trace. I’ll never be free from this torment and pain— no miracle cure, just the same old chain. I scream in silence; I used to be seen— I’m fading away, unheard and unseen. Don’t ask me to smile or tell me, “Be brave”— this useless old soul no one will save. So if I am fading, don’t look away— this broken old heart still beats every day. I may be worn out and I may not belong— my body won’t work, but my voice is still strong.