The Day I Am Gone

The day I am dead, the day I'll sleep, No more promises I couldn't keep. My soul, at last, may find its peace, From pain that never seemed to cease. I carry storms inside my chest, No calm, no pause, no time to rest. My tears ran dry, but not my ache, Each breath I take, a silent quake. A son who failed his father's pride, A shadow where light should reside. A mother’s eyes, so full, so kind Yet I could give her none of mine. A brother lost in distance wide, A friend who couldn’t be the guide. They all gave more than I could return, Yet still I watch their candles burn. I tried I swear but stayed too small, A silent echo in a crowded hall. Mediocre dreams and broken will, Climbing but standing, standing still. Anxiety eats what hope I make, Each night, a war I cannot fake. Smiling lips but hollow eyes, A heavy heart beneath clear skies. I don’t want statues, tears, or names, Just let the wind erase my shame. For when I'm gone, let silence stay A quiet end to my loud decay.