She sat waiting, staring out in space littered with things. 
It was a warm afternoon.
I busied myself around the house painted blue.     
I have not seen her this way. 
When she used to get things done, she now needed someone to get them done. 

​

I wondered, have I been away too long?

 

I busied myself around the house. 
I folded the blankets and all that matters. 
She asked me to find her a help, as she sighed and helped tidy up the bed. 
I have not seen her this way. 
When most of the chores were done, her day began and we were gone.  

​

I wondered, have I been away too long?

 

The sun was setting. Dad would be back by then. 
The kitchen was quiet but the fridge was full. 
I scavenged around for food, half-eaten, perhaps bitten. 
I asked if there was anything else to eat. She looked uncertain. 
I sighed, wondered and pondered. Pot and pans, I fumbled. 

​

I wondered, have I been away too long?

 

The TV was loud. Mom was napping. Dad was dozing. The evening was longing.
I sat staring out in space littered with things.
Gazing at memories of my family, of a family, of the family.
I looked at what was left behind.
When there used to be kindred spirit, it was warm and bright. 

​

I wondered, have I been away too long?

 

As dawn broke, my bags were packed. 
It was a warm and bright morning start.
I sat waiting. She sat waiting. 
Between us were years apart. 
My bags were worn, our days forlorn.

​

When she bid me goodbye,
                        I wondered have I said goodbye.