Winter Solstice

 

 F. E. Lin 

 

We have a secret

hidden in the cold

hidden beneath the snow

 

I have met you on the threshold

in the depth of night

on the longest night of the year

 

You take my hand and we walk

through the underground tunnels

past the places where your family sleeps

 

Until we came to the outside

The deep cold breathing in

bitter but for the warmth of you

 

We slip out quietly like errant children

sharing mischievous glances

like stolen chocolates

 

The night is so still

the air so crisp

stars glitter and glint in the black sky

 

Snow crunches under our feet

Naked tree branches cast black shadows

The moon is waxing near full

 

There is no need for words with you

There is no need for material gifts

what I share with you goes beyond such things

 

If I can share this night with you

If I can share the stars

I will give up the tinsel and holly

 

Trade instead for the magic of my hand in yours

and the moonlight caught in the tangle of your hair

and your arm holding me close

 

And especially, especially.....

the wonder of your first kiss

so the cold melts away

 

Becoming distant and forgotten

as winter holds us in its hands

secret and safe