The Dawn Comes Slowly

the dawn comes slowly this day

cloud shrouded sun

cannot break through

the hovering darkness

i can sense 

but not see

the world around me

muted and dulled

it hids within

the folds of gray 

and black

sometimes

all of life seems dimmer

as if I cannot see

clearly

or experience

fully

i have stuffed my soul

so full

of hurt and resentment

fear and guilt

i have filled the space around my heart 

until little can get out

and less get in

and i can no longer touch

life's

essential tenderness

and poignancy

Perhaps it is time

for a little housecleaning