Belonging

Oh, I am having such a wonderful time! This war brings new life; warmth into my cold walls When I hear that long drawn out sound I know they are coming! Families; children, mothers and fathers The smell of kitchens, floor-polish, that nurturing smell Comforting me, wrapping its arms around me Saying 'we are here, you are loved!' I enfold them in my space Protecting them; it is my job. I have shared the brief kiss of a departing lover Watched babes suckle, as the matriarchal mother, Tells stories of hope to sleepy eyed children, whilst, The quiet tears of her grief intermingle with mine. I have felt every frustrated footstep of a pacing father Saying 'I shouldn't be here!' I want to tell them 'I am here!' But I have not been granted the power of speech Instead I am the silent presence Who they run to in their fear But, what about me? What about my fear? Oh! Let it never end - don't lock me away Alone once more Life was so lonely for a cellar Before the bombs came.