The water under the bridge is frozen today. 

Underneath my feet, the ice like a mirror reflecting my mien. 

Around me, the winter wind scowls, too bitter and blasé, 

The frigid air distinct like a dream unseen. 

Thoughts drift and float and land on my coat. 

It’s easy to wonder if a blunder will tear me asunder, 

When even the trees have given up their leaves. 

A blanket from a flurry unforetold; and with nowhere to go, 

I grab ahold of the fleeting warmth that escapes into the cold, 

The taunting memory of home already lost in the snow. 

With one final sigh, my breath returns to the night, 

And I, despite the uninviting ice, lie here, and finally glimpse at the light. Boring bleak skies hail disenchantment, but the soul still prevails.

A warm mug, a pillow, and a hug are out of the question.