Within the four walls
memories stir, the smell
of cologne remains
poignant, the sound of
laughter echoes a favorite
tune, tears struggle to
be set free.

The closet’s belly stays 
nearly full after six months’
worth of grieving. Clothes
hang proudly as if he’ll
search for the right shirt
and matching pants for the
day’s activities, all hoping
to be chosen for the outing.
Shoes sit tightly for their
next walk like dogs eagerly
awaiting their master’s call.

Some belongings have
warmed the backs of those
in need. But emotion’s pull is
firm, so to surrender all
feels like a balloon slipping
through fingers, escaping
into the big blue, slowly
fading away…

Lauren Scott © 2018