the change was

so gradual

i didn’t even notice.

once i was

waking up excited

for the day.

once i would simply

play with the

neighbors til dusk.

once i didn’t

want to go to sleep,

for i wanted it

to be morning.

now,

i wake up

and wish i could go back

to sleep.

now,

i sit on the couch

hoping for a change

for the better.

now i crave sleep

and dread the

morning.