THE EMPTY GRAVE

With the earth’s population increasing by the minute
The landscape, being overcome  with concrete structures 
Paved lanes, steel domes, and secured lawns
Only top-clearance individuals can access it.

There is still a reserved space unoccupied, and deliberate 
Awaiting our arrival 
A choice made for each one of us by those left behind 

Be it burial by sea, ashes cast to the wind
Or the belly of the earth enclosing us in eternal darkness 
The empty grave awaits patiently 
To tombstone our footsteps in this journey called life.

Wilford Barker.