backspace and replace,

delete, bin, trash disabled

the escape key fails

jealous eyes watching

behind pale masks slip within

recruiting through fear

oh six thirty eight

the street lamps turn themselves off

dog gives a long sigh

the week begins slow

and quiet and soft except

a clock counting time

the sky a flat grey

few lights no sound of traffic

a distant dove calls

could there ever be

a day less fine than today?

a daily mantra

morning mist lingers

between close trees, distant hills

bird song and traffic

On the common path

shared tales of dogs now parted

and those at our sides