Karianna

© Karyn Ellis

I walked through the snowy back fields to clear out these nightmares.
It was there I swear I could feel you walking beside me.
My tiny hand still warm where you held my mitten.
Is it true? Do I carry you with me?
Is it you? Do I carry you with me?

I unpacked those dusty old boxes in search of your letters.
I was looking for words, for clues, maybe for you.
Instead I found a picture of you smiling.
Is it true? Do I carry you with me?
Is it you? Do I carry you with me?

Good night, little Karianna.
Sleep tight, little Karianna.
Don’t let the bed bugs bite you, child.

There’s whipped cream smothered hot chocolate–like you used to make me.
But I am still full, still burning.
I stare at the ring of sweetness left by my sipping.
Is it true? Do I carry you with me?
Is it you? Do I carry you with me?

Good night, little Karianna.
Sleep tight, little Karianna.
Don’t let the bed bugs bite you, child.

I curled up in soft blankets in bed, I was listening for whispers.
For your voice, your song singing oh my sweet baby.
It was then I heard so clearly my own voice crying.
Is it true? Do I carry you with me?
Is it you? Do I carry you with me?

Good night, little Karianna.
Sleep tight, little Karianna.
Don’t let the bed bugs bite you, child.

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