Passed the corner shop, lights still on Same dog barkin’, same dusk yawn Sidewalk cracked where I used to trip Now I step slow — let the cold air grip Leaves stack like thoughts I skipped Didn’t call back, didn’t make the list Window glow in someone’s flat Little life scenes — I like that I don’t walk this way to be seen I walk it to feel in-between Where the day fades out And I breathe in clean I take the long way home Streetlights lead like I’m known No calls, no pace Just space and slow grace The world can wait, I roam Takin’ the long way home Passed by the house with the overgrown gate Felt like time here runs late Fingers cold but my mind’s warm Wanderin’ back through every worn form Thought of you — but not in pain Just a song that played in the light rain Didn’t skip, didn’t rewind Some things land softer with time Sidewalks hold the steps I leave In dust and breath, I still believe You find your truth When you stop to grieve I take the long way home Streetlights lead like I’m known No calls, no pace Just space and slow grace The world can wait, I roam Takin’ the long way home Every shortcut cut too deep Rushed past peace I couldn’t keep Now I walk for what I missed And I don’t mind the twist I take the long way home Found pieces where I used to roam No maps, no race Just rhythm and place Still breathing in my own poem Taking the long way home
