The familiar sound of rainfall
Splish-splashing on my slated roof
flooded my head with memories
as I lay awake in darkness.
I remember similar nights
as a child: just before the rain
the pungent odor of ozone
followed by a gentle drumming
of raindrops pitter pattering
convinced that its sound protected
me from the dreaded boogieman
who seemingly lurked unobserved.
I remember pleading with god
begging Him not to stop the rain