With the Lamp Turned Low

I sit near
the window that
looks out upon
the yard and
the trees beyond.

I sit here
calm and
determined
to see what is left
of the day into
darkness.

In one hand I hold
a book which
I have read often,
one which
gives me comfort
just to hold.

In the other I hold
my glasses which
at times
look as if
they belong to
someone else.

How easily
this room
takes to darkness.

- from "The Empty Mirror"