I had lost a long time confidante,
and the loss dangled on me
like a swinging chain
choking at my throat,
alternating between
heaviness and numb upswings.
You knew this,
and knew me,
you knew exactly what to say
and do.
You called me up
while I was vacuuming,
I was doing anything at the time
to keep busy,
and you gave me hope
that I could touch.
You talked about
our first Christmas tree
in our first home,
Christmas with our families,
warm, spiced apple cider,
gifts for my mom.
You reminded me
that although at that time,
I felt lonely without a guide,
that I was not alone.