empty shroud

i feel guilty. for my emotions. for my behavior. for my shortcomings. for my dreams. for myself.

i feel sad. for the loss. for the months. for the years. for the days. for the upset. for you.

i am empty. my throat constricts with every breath. my heart jumps to a stop before slowly beating again. my lungs wilt and freeze. the cold panic runs from my head to my toes.

my shroud of despair hangs above. i fear it's descent. but i welcome the silence it will bring. the silence to my stricken heart.

the quiet stopper to my tears.