December Night

December weighs heavily on us tonight –
So much snow in so short a time.
Sidewalk and driveway disappear.
Our boot prints to the bird feeder,
The dog’s slight prints and the trail
She made out, then back are gone now

As if nature corrects itself, tries to get
It right this time – white as far as we
Can see, flawless, forgiving and wind
Whispering, as it will, whispering
A poem, prayer for this part of the year –
The darkest days enlightened with snow.

-- J. K. Durick