I think many of us have had that horrible moment of sheer panic when the ringing of a telephone awakens us in the early morning hours from a deep sleep. This is the only time we truly wish for it to be a "wrong number". Unfortunately, this poem was inspired by an all-too-real, life-altering incident.
The call that comes in darkest sleep
Awakens with a fright
For 2 am
the silence breaks
The peaceful calm of night
When only moments earlier
I dreamt of visions fair
Of light and love and happiness
Till ringing filled the air
It beckoned me from deepest sleep
And drew me from my daze
I shook my head to clear my mind
Find focus through this haze
How long has this been ringing?
As I reach to find the light
I steal a glance toward the clock
And now my heart takes flight!
'Tis many hours before the dawn
Yet all should be in bed
My loved ones faces fill the night
My heart is filled with dread
I struggle for composure as
I reach to grab the phone
My stomach churns
my heart contracts
I stumble as I grasp the handle
Stifle silent screams
Oh God please let this phone call
Be a part of just a dream!
My heart is racing
mind's a whirl
Receiver's made of lead
Oh, how can this be happening!
Who's on the other end?
Just seconds pass and yet I find
It's been eternity
I raise the phone to panicked ear
Oh please
don't be for me!
