A Poem: Fearing Winter

I wish time was kinder, slower
less given to mocking me
with deceptive hours
that unravel too quickly
making me miss
all of the small things
I love about autumn
falling leaves
photographing pumpkins
corn mazes
not for me, not this year

When I finally looked up
the trees were already half bare
and you were cold

Winter scares me
its fierce nakedness
unmasks your vulnerability
and mine
compelling me to wrap you in my arms
until bright green sprouts
cover bare branches

The new growth means you’ll be safe
no need for hand-knit hats
or hand-knotted wigs
the home spun yarn
is meant to keep the cold
far from you