There it sits, in shadows cast, Silent keeper of the past, Worn and weary, wood and thread, Holding all the words unsaid. Still it waits, both proud and bare, Memories etched in empty air, Once a throne of laughter bright, Now just echoes through the night. I see you there, though you are gone, Your presence lingered far too long, Stories told and secrets shared, Now just whispers, unprepared. How many mornings did we greet Side by side in that old seat? Coffee steaming, sun would rise, Love reflected in your eyes. But life moved on, like rivers bend, And fate, it took my dearest friend. Left behind this vacant space, A hollow shape where love took place. And yet I sit and talk to you, Pretending like I used to do, As if your warmth still fills the air, And you’re just resting in that chair. So here I’ll stay, until I find The strength to leave it all behind, But for now, it’s where I dare To dream you’re here, in that empty chair. By Jason Strickland