wake up
to the ringing
what rueful news
is she bringing?

flames
tell me more
where?
at my door

bumpy ride
spinning rims
reach the corner
my heavy limbs

officer
let me through
i live there
yes i do

rushing water
flashing lights
is this a dream?
my throat feels tight

warm red branches
crispy leaves
remains hanging
from the eaves

bare young feet
run to me
tears soak my hair
i feel too free

hours pass
still no luck
they'll have to plow
down the muck

ashy piles
of remains lay still
swirls of smoke rising
the air it fills

days later
driving by
finally
i feel wet eyes