The Keeper

The Keeper
© N Noël Feb 2009


I am my brother’s Keeper sometimes I wonder why
Can’t keep it all together no matter how much I try
Double checking, listing each detail I must fix
Is anyone aware this is process brings me so much conflict

The Keeper of all things from those close, far and wide
Don’t know how long I’ll be able to sustain the volcano brimming on the inside
Only thing holding it all in is a shallow sense of pride

Keeper of secrets told in the quiet of the night
Loud whispers thrust upon me that are canvassed and galvanized
All holding on to their own truths buried and disguised
Incidentals and excuses some just won’t throw away
Why hold on to baggage that’s old and decayed

Repeating their absurdities again and again
The echoing in my eardrums driving me insane
Like rain pelting stones on a window pane
No longer want to hold on to anyone’s individual pain

Clouded by the visions others bring to me
My heart and head are so full I can barely see
A glimpse of my own person that’s quickly forgotten
Hidden in a field of a slaves’ tall cotton

Keeper of all things is not the job I asked for
Keep begging someone to please open up this reservoir
Drain away the responsibilities of present and in the future
Need time and space to fix my own broken shutters

Won’t be whole if all of me is given away
Wish others would find it in their hearts
To work toward their own new day

Can offer what little I have in words and good graces
Just don’t remember when I agreed to switch places
I am my brother’s Keeper I try the best I can
Keep trying not to get swallowed up in everyone’s quicksand

Can’t promise I’ll be around each and every time
When morning comes upon us won’t find me my friend
The Keeper will be long gone a shadow of a person a life only some will mourn