Cavities

You were convulsing in the next room So I lay awake in bed Prayed to a God I don't believe in So that he may keep you safe

I could hear my father's fingers Carve their way into the wood of your door frame Mother shaking As your eyes rolled back into your head again

Just as we thought death would prevail Febrile response gave way to pale Cavities to fingernails Anxiety had left me frail But I felt then as I feel now Despite the detriment you've faced It is your warmth that's made me proud

Though I barely remember It was you who smoothed my ache In the depth of my depression I thought my life was mine to take

But I am forever in your debt For things that you could never say All the love that I have felt You gave, with no intention to take

I am as the moon Any affection that my glow is the subject of Belongs to you For I am nothing more than a reflection of you And your love