Sic Transit Gloria Mundi

I'm a means to your end, a physical obstacle between where you are and who you're looking for. I can't tell you where they are, or when they're coming home.

But I see you.

I do.

I see gravity pressing your shoulders down. I see the anticipation and excitement flicker out and die.

Come back, I want to whisper. They will come for you.

My dead wood knows. Yours can see too.

A knock for a knock.

So leave me wide open, my door and yours, to let your loved ones come running.

And I promise you, they will come.

If only you would see the joy in your eyes.