Poetry: Open Window

First published in Night Picnic Journal, Volume 1

Open Window

I left a window open

in case the thief of my heart

should ever come flying back.

When others knocked at my door,

I was slow to answer them,

for I was peering out at the night.

I hoped to see a shadow cross

the moon, a sign that my fidelity

had not been in vain.

Now I have watched for the shadow

so many years and I have spoken

with you through my closed door.

I've thought about letting you in.

I left a window open, you see,

because my heart flew out

with another one night. And you

deserve someone who has a heart

they can devote to you.

I will not lie and say that

you have not made me consider

forsaking my nightly post.

I left a window open,

but though I sometimes see

the shadow as it darts past me,

I have lingered here too long.

My chest has long since grown

used to the empty space.

I think about unlocking my door,

but I wonder if you could be happy

with one who leaves the window open.