Struggle by Dawn Leaf filtered pre-dawn shadows, Embrace our first apartment, Where she and my child lie, Next to me on an empty floor, An empty room except for bills, Soft breath, breathing -- freely. I hold her, unable to wind down, After a long grave shift thinking, How to use the next check's pay, Wishing for a bed or blanket, To smother the harsh carpet's grip, They sleep in the dark -- restful. The breast of Dawn about to Be exposed to morning light, Bringing new sensations of an Unknown day, not unlike yesterday, Or tomorrow. Breast against chest, I hear the child sigh -- contently. And at last I sleep too.   -T. Gene Davis