Winter without weight

The dryer thumps a hollow beat

Like someone pacing in the street

Your hoodie on the kitchen chair

Keeps holding you like you're still there

No snow this year just muddy rain

The gutters learn my middle name

I turn the faucet on for sound

So I don't hear you not around

I'm not asking for a cure

Just something small that feels like yours

Winter without weight the steps stay slick

I try to pray but prayers don't stick

I need you near I need you real

Winter without weight is how I feel

The year won't settle in my chest

It keeps me up it won't let rest

The morning news says stay inside

The air is hard to breathe tonight

A school gym filled with folding cots

Like everybody ran out of spots

A note downstairs about repairs

New rules for trash and narrow stairs

I read it twice then start to shake

At how much normal people take

I bought two waters one for you

And carried both like something true

I keep a sentence in my teeth

Too soft to say too hard to keep

Winter without weight the steps stay slick

I try to pray but prayers don't stick

I need you near I need you real

Winter without weight is how I feel

The year won't settle in my chest

It keeps me up it won't let rest

If you come back don't bring a speech

Don't bring a list don't promise peace

Just sit with me on tile and wood

And let the silence turn to good

I'm not a saint I'm not a sign

I'm just a kid with shaky time

Trying to stay soft in a year

That won't stop changing shape in here

Winter without weight don't close the door

I can't be brave like this no more

If you're still you if I'm still me

Come make this room a place to breathe

Winter without weight come sit down close

Say anything and let it hold