Telephone Stalker

Seven o’clock in the morning
My phone rings shrilly,
Causing me to jump nearly out of my skin
Destroying a relaxed and peaceful moment
Sitting by my friendly old computer just then.

I run to the phone and lift the earpiece.
“Hello,” I say in a friendly tone. No answer!
“Hello,” I say again, louder. Still no answer!
The silence spins louder than words
As the stalker holds the phone, listening.

“Do you have something to say,
Or do you just want to play foolish games?” I inquire.
No answer. I hang up the phone
After hearing a puff of breath on the other end.

The calls continue infrequently
Creating a pattern matching an occurrence
Between me and someone I know.
Surely, it can’t be THAT PERSON—
Surely not THAT PERSON whom I call my friend.

Can it be? Can that be the person calling me?
Surely, s/he wouldn’t be that crass
To disturb my life and tranquility
When all s/he has to do is say hello
And receive a warm reply.

What sort of sick compulsion
Would cause someone to call my phone
And hold it while they listen to the silence
After I politely say hello?

Are they sick, insane, evil, malicious, cruel?
What can be going on inside that person’s head?
I know who you are,
Yet, I cannot accuse you by name
Until I can furnish positive proof.

You are sick, my friend, and need help!
Telephone stalking is a crime just like physical stalking.

© 2007 Jeanette Cooper