For Smokey

I.
Somehow I thought you'd always be here
so I put our time another day
There was always work, emergencies, late nights or chores
so i put our plans another day
I shortchanged your constant patient love
Until there was no other day

II.
Just as if the day before
you were waiting by the gate
rising to greet me

Just as if the day before
you scampered across the floor
to sit beside me

Just as if the day before
you climbed the stairs
to look for me

Just as if the day before
you blessed my life and house
with your generous spirit

Each day I see your memory
in this empty house
Just as if the day before

III.
I do not know when it will be;
12 weeks, 4 months, one year from now
when my heart and tears
will again be filled
with you