HAUNTED

Written for Spidey's Weekly Poetry Contest

HAUNTED

The old clock in the hallway
struck one as I tossed in sleep,
Another night of wondering
what secrets the ghosts keep.

I awaken in the darkness,
knowing I am not alone -
The trembling starts again
and I am chilled to the bone.

For sitting there, in my easy chair,
just as if he really did belong -
a man who wore a sea captain's cap
and softly sang a seaman's song.

He made no move as I grabbed a light
to shine upon his bearded face;
yet when the light come on I found -
of him there was not a trace!

I heard the running footsteps,
a child's laughter, full of glee;
I shook my head in wonderment,
for there was no one home but me.

I pulled the covers up around
and covered up my aging head;
I heard a child call "Daddy!",
I swear that's what he said!

The door closed, oh, so softly;
I heard them walk away together.
It's clear that I am haunted!
I hope it's not forever....

Yet as ghosts go, it's nice to know
that a father and his little son
are once more on earth united.
and are gone with the morning sun.

Countrymom
10/5/04