Curse

Sirens in the night, a sudden catch of fright that all is not right;
I almost know but I make it go and I've forgotten by the morning light.
Just another day, or at least it seems that way, for dread is fading fast.
I see the shattered tree without a memory of sirens in the night and fright that didn't last.
Then I read your name - things are not the same - once I realise
'There was a crash. The driver died.' I cannot hide the tears in my eyes.

Six years from then I hear them again in their anguished plight;
Sirens in the night, and a sudden catch of fright that all is not right.
I try to make it go but this time I know and I cry inside;
Their lives are spared, but now I'm scared, and I die inside
Each time I hear my private sound of fear - sirens in the night -
And shudderingly wait for another twitch of fate to let me know all is not right.