Buried in the dark earth, I blink my eyes. It is dark and warm, familiar almost. I take a deep breath in and feel my lungs expand. I can breathe! I shuffle in my tight little cocoon, feeling my soft white bunny suit against my skin. I check to make sure my friends- my two stuffed bunnies- are still with me and smile when I find them.
As I wipe the sleep from my eyes I realize what had awoken me. I hear the mumblings of your voice. Your voice is soft and muted, like it was when I was inside you. I listen to your rhythmic singsong as you read to me- I love this story. You said it was your favorite book as a kid and I can see why. Truth is, I’m just happy to hear your voice. I’m sad when you stop after a few chapters, wanting to know what happens next, but I know you’ll be back to read more. Even though you’re silent now, I can feel the weight of you, like a heavy down comforter on a cold winter’s night, lying on the grass above me.
I remember when you first came- you cried and cried. I tried to tell you I’m right here, but my words bounce off the cool earth above me. They are nonsense anyways, just the coos and babbles of a newborn baby. I want to tell you that I sleep a lot, really only waking when I hear your voice. And I’m not alone- there’s a kind old grandma lady behind me and another baby in front of me. It’s a slumber party! We smile when we notice each other awake. It’s nice here, reminds me of your womb. I wish I could be on the outside with you, but it’s not so bad here.
Then I hear those words you always say when you’re about to leave. “I love you Mabel. I wish you were here.” And with that, like a kiss good night, my eyes grow heavy and I’m asleep again, until the next time.
I have been reading all along but have never commented before. I just wanted to tell you that this is beautiful.
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