You came like morning light
in a room that wasn’t asking for sun
unexpected but appreciated
because everything looked beautiful

I made space
excitedly and welcoming
But not loud or clumsily
Though you never promised to stay

I held my breath
when your light
no longer illuminated
waiting patiently for it to shine again

Then the hush and darkness
drove me into a stillness
The light that doesn’t choose to stay
isn’t mine to chase

This isn’t peace
but I can breathe again

Mariam Shittu