In the darkness

of the early morning

before the sun rises

before the birds begin to sing

she walks

not wanting to rest

though her eyes struggle

and her body begs for sleep

she fears her dreams

silently

she walks

the only sound

the faint crack

of twigs and leaves

beneath her boots

and then

comes a quiet whisper

"I wish I could help you..."

and she wonders

who spoke?

was it a ghost

or was it her?