Love's Enduring Joy

A woman sits alone starring into a frigid, Wind-swept snow through a frosted window Moistened by her breath. Deeply she breathes with melodious ease Preoccupied by the moment, Unaware and too upset to care. Eyes desolate, glowering in disbelief Stare into a realm of her own making Forlorn, untouchable, inconsolable. Tightly she grasps a woven blanket Upon her legs draping, swaying Above the floor. The odor of burnt wood pervades the air; From a hearth the crackle of embers Echo through a shrouding silence. From among the shadows a young girl Steps forth; stopping, gently touching The woman’s arm as she whispers Into her ear. The eyes of the woman awoke, Surprised by the young child As they tenderly embraced; Tears laden with joy flowed Down her weary face. Together, yet apart the child Said nothing as she took one step back Into the dark. “I love you mother” the child said As she disappeared into the silence.