We had to be with ourselves for awhile
Relearn our heart in the din of stillness
Trail the breath in and out
Unhinge the rusty jawbone  

Some days we tried to dance away the lonely
But our feet did not recognize their purpose
Arms swinging like dead logs
Fingers like naughty children refusing to snap  

Other days we relished putting our feet up
Savored cookies and wine at odd hours
As if our parents were away
And we the royals we always longed to be  

Now something stirs outside our window
That demands attention    That shouts      That flames
Take off the slippers and go to the door
Answer it