In The Winter Woods

Footprints in the snow,

Crushing fallen flakes,

Breaking frozen twigs,

Cracking underfoot.

Overhead a canopy of crystal

Frosting evergreen leaves.

Sometimes falling flurries

Kissing canvas jackets and upturned hoods.

And ahead in the winter wood

More crazed bark on trees,

Like sinister men in the night

Standing sentinel in the darkness.

Crisp and soft gently going,

I remember summer pictures,

When cold and dark were gone,

And in its stead a green oasis and halcyon skies.

But that is long ago,

It is December now in its icy glory.

Suddenly I see a pair of green eyes,

It is the ginger brush of the fox.

Looking, scouring the darkness for a repast,

It is like myself,

Just a ghost in the midnight white,

Under a galaxy of shining stars.