Winter sun rises, but cold doesn’t retreat
Gray clouds and gray sky, window obstructed by sleet
Against the chilling air, clouds of breath dissipate
Snow day declared, children enjoy sleeping late
One child, poor dear, sounded by white
Pretends it’s the sun, not a hospital light
Unable to move, pretends numb from the cold
Premature wrinkles create a false image of old
Tears fall onto the body like fresh fallen snow
Through bravery hides his unhealthy glow
Shaky smile, teeth chatter, breath feels restricted
Face masks don’t hide their mutual feelings: conflicted
Rub hands together, warm up by the fire
Eyes close reluctantly, plan begins to transpire
Sun sets down below, but the moon doesn’t rise
Eaten by the night, a veiled disguise
But then, the next day, warmth grows from within
Sun rises to reveal its beautiful sin
Peace comes along with this god-awful trick
Soul free, hearts grieve, at least he’s no longer sick