Shelley Williams (3/27/1972 / Salt Lake City, Utah)

The darkness was silent
and the night was still.
I thought I was alone
after taking my pill.

There came a sound
that startled the land.
It was heard by many
but hard to understand.

Dogs were smacked
for the noise in the air.
There was even a howl
that could tame a bear.

While in my room
I sat up in bed.
The Tourette's sang
of the tics in my head.

The barking was loud
and it caused an ache.
In the heads of those
who were wide awake.

The gloom rose up
and brought a storm.
I hid in the shadows
where I felt warm.

The thunder boomed
and rain hit the ground.
but nothing exceeded
my barking sound.

My mind was sore
and my voice got dry.
I tried to stop
but it made me cry.

The wind blew sweet
and it calmed the night.
While I lay in my bed
everything became right.

My vocal bark ceased
and the dogs could rest.
My mind now at peace
was felt at its best.

Sleep spread quickly
across the land.
Thanks to Mother Nature
and her helping hand.