LEAVE THE LIGHT ON

it’s five a.m.
i’m on the porch swing again
when did i leave my bed – maybe i never slept
every time i close my eyes the scene plays over again
we’re standing at the station, i’m grippin’ your hand

i find myself in the kitchen so hungry i’m weak
i scrape at my burnt toast and stare into my tea
i look across the table at that empty chair
if i try real hard i see you smiling there

i leave the light on, i keep the house warm
all the things we love fill these rooms
i leave the light on, i pull your letters near
your words fall down my face with these tears
they’re mixed with my tears
i leave the light on

i’m sorry for the long grass – i know you like a fresh cut
the neighbors don’t seem to mind
they don’t come ‘round much
i can’t do anything without thinking of you
from the scratch in the floor to your favorite old shoes

i pray to no one there – crying for some relief
i need confirmation that it’s time to grieve
i wrap up this heart and place it in the ground
it’s got no life it makes no sound

i leave the light on, i leave the radio on
i leave my love light on, i leave my best face on

© 2003 MJ Bishop