In these long, cold days of winter, there seems to be no end. The land is frozen in its lengthy slumber, but the world goes on. Despite the harsh conditions and occasional fitful storms, there is beauty in winter, in the crisp stillness of the air and the way the dusty snow shimmers on a sunny day. Blankets feel warmer, hugs feel tighter and the glow of the fire fills our homes like soft, protective stuffing. In the comfort of this contrast we can see the wonder in the white world outside our windows.

“Calmly Winter”

When the season quietly announces its presence

In the still of the crisp air

When the sun’s image shines through the crystal sky

Through this glass-topped icebox

It’s calmly winter

When no goosebumps form

Beneath the sheltering layers of fabric

When heat expelled equals heat created

By the body which need not shiver

It’s calmly winter

When the sparkling snow is positioned

In waves and dunes

When last night’s flurry produced such detail

Now waiting for the next gale’s influence

It’s calmly winter

When my nose remains cold

And my lips begin to chap

In the breeze that threatens crescendo

spontaneously gusting and refraining

When it returns to its motionless silence

...remember…

It’s calmly winter

By Chelsea Monk