The world is waiting in the street—

with music, dancing, flashing light.

The next in line will rise tonight

to take the crown and claim his seat

on this hopeful New Year’s Eve. 

Did anybody see you leave?

Slipping past us in the lane

to the darkness and the rain?

Did you think we would not grieve

that you did not say goodbye? 

You left more softly than a sigh

like I’d be glad to see you go. 

But I had wanted you to know

you’d always have a place nearby—

I’ve made a guest room of my mind.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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