By Lillibit Ray
Falling asleep only to wake up again,
But now paralyzed, frozen in bed.
I see the room and the door, open
to the hallway, ebony black,
and someone is there.
A sheet covers my nose and mouth,
Stifling breath and voice.
And in the doorway
there is suddenly a cat purring so loudly
as if it is laughing at me.
I try to say help, but I can no longer speak.
The cat turns and leaves,
and now, from the hallway.
the outline of a human emerges.
Drawing near,
it says, “Do not forget”
And immediately all of my regrets
dance in visions before my eyes.
Feelings of chill and death inside.
I give into remorse.
Exhausted, I let go of trying to break free
From this nightmare of invisible bondage.
Sinking, I begin to asphyxiate,
When just then, bursting up from bed,
I’m truly awake, perspiring,
Strong, deep inhales and exhales,
But little relief comes,
For my recalled regrets remain with me
Like a necklace made of lead,
So heavy to wear.
Standing up, walking ponderously to the hallway.
No one is there but me
With all the guilt I carry, but can’t bear.