I say thanks

One soft step, then another on the street,

the silence in between feels strangely sweet.

You called the dog, I heard “stand guard”,

my breath went short, my shoulders hard.

Your clipped commands cut through my chest,

a racing drum that robbed my rest.

Now when the wind slips through the frame,

your shadow shakes, but it’s not the same.

I say thanks, low in the night,

where you once bit, there’s softer light.

Not who’s right, just one small sign,

I whisper thanks and draw a line.

You walked ahead, I trailed behind,

a faithful shadow with a borrowed mind.

Where fear once filled that narrow hall,

now open doors and room for all.

Don’t say a word, let quiet speak,

the guard dog sleeps, let the armor creak.

I say thanks, low in the night,

where you once bit, there’s softer light.

Not who’s right, just one small sign,

I whisper thanks and draw a line.

I was a fighter, always on,

jaw locked tight till the feeling was gone.

Tonight I drop my helmet down,

and meet your eyes without a frown.

When watchful worry melts to grace,

the old wound finds its rightful place.

I say thanks, low in the night,

where you once bit, there’s softer light.

Not who’s right, just one clear sign,

I breathe out thanks and cut the line.

One slow step, then another, homeward bound,

the space between them holds a softer sound.