when you can’t smell
the morning coffee
or hear the birds
singing in the trees
when a child’s laughter brings
only a ghost of a smile
when puppy breathe
brings no joy
when you can’t smell
new cut grass
when the laughter of friends
makes you lonely
when the thought of tomorrow
brings tears to your eyes
when you can’t find answers
to any of your prayers
maybe it’s time to just stop
and listen
Empty Garden 