These Are My JOTtings, Part #2

Safe for the Night

A light in the woods across the lake,
white streaks of clouds giving way to night.
No place to sleep, but a chance to take,
a dinghy, paddles, without much sight.

The lake's so deep, unknown dangers hide,
but there's nothing here to make a fire.
"No options" haunts my eroded pride.
Dark Death seems ready to call the choir.

These slurried strokes raise my hairs on end.
The minutes slow until hours long.
The thud of the bow, now shore attends.
That I still live brings to throat the song.

The light falls soft on the shore through trees.
A cabin's porch with three lights burn bright.
The hope of help quickens steps to see.
Pounding raps on door, heart beats with might.

Naught moves inside, but the rustles start.
A bear? A snake? I must find the key.
Above the door, there it is, so smart.
Insert, then turn, quickly in, now free.

I bolt the door, see the couch, then flop.
Knowing now I'm safe, there's hope for the night.
Unbuckling the pack, it rolls over to drop.
The quilt from the couch, a fine cover alright.

by Jay O’Toole
on October 3rd, 2025