Standing within four walls now bare
left to wonder, to worry and fret
to walk and wait, with no one there
time oozing along, not there yet

Gloom turning walls from white to black
shudders closed against stark of day
wait in anguish, watching my back
soap suds futile, won’t wash away

Silence engulfs the room and halls
bringing a ring and hiss to ears
crossing the floor and climbing walls
smothering gladness, birthing fears

Laughter once heard, now remembered
of times when smiles covered the faces
and eyes shone bright, sparkled, glimmered
Sadness was gone without traces

A house can hold the happiness
of a family without strife
of tenderness and sweet caress
between two souls, husband and wife.