Alone

A poem from Salt & Ashes

the worst kind of loneliness
isn’t being alone.
it’s being with someone
who doesn’t see you.

it’s talking
and not being heard.
it’s shrinking
so the silence
won’t grow heavier.

it’s laughter
that doesn’t reach you.
touch
that doesn’t comfort.
company
that only deepens
the ache.

this kind of loneliness
teaches you
how much you truly need
to be seen—
not in pieces,
but whole.