[Intro]
Softly, I lean into the quiet of this voice I keep for you
Like a lamp left burning in a hallway you once walked through
[Verse 1]
Dear nhlupheko, the days stretch long and gentle
I measure time in the hush between your name and mine
Gratitude glows in the corners of my breath
For every small light you left behind, a spark I still keep alive
[Chorus]
I long for your familiar step and the echo of your laugh
But I carry you like a hush of dawn on my skin
Distance is a map I learn to trace with hopeful hands
We’ll meet again where stories begin
[Verse 2]
Your kindness folds into my mornings like a soft quilt
Warmth settles in the places I thought would forget
In every memory I hear your steady voice saying, “be whole”
And I feel your impact steadying my heart from afar
[Pre-Chorus]
Though miles pull us, your kindness travels me back to myself
[Chorus]
I long for your familiar step and the echo of your laugh
But I carry you like a hush of dawn on my skin
Distance is a map I learn to trace with hopeful hands
We’ll meet again where stories begin
[Bridge]
If I could send you a breeze, I’d tuck it with your name
Let it wrap you warm on chilly nights, a soft, constant flame
[Chorus]
I long for your familiar step and the echo of your laugh
But I carry you like a hush of dawn on my skin
Distance is a map I learn to trace with hopeful hands
We’ll meet again where stories begin
[Outro]
Until then, dear nhlupheko, I keep you close in the light I carry within
Waiting for the day our paths weave back to one shared horizon
