Subtle Reminders

A warm pile of dog shit occupies the living room floor. The one-hundred-and-twenty-year-old pine floors absorb its nutrients and odor. I will clean it and sanitize the area. Tomorrow, a new pile will take its place.

A subtle reminder of life.

Plastic tubs full of forgotten memories fill the room's margins. They are distinct in size and vibrant in color. Each covers a hole or blemish in the aging drywall.

A subtle reminder of love.

Dark navy bed sheets hang sloppily as makeshift curtains. They cover the yellowed-white paint, broken windows, and a world outside.

A subtle reminder of friendship.