Forgiving Winter

Sick of the cold, the bitter and the dark,

Village folk lamented nights oh so stark.

"When will the Sun rise high up in the sky?"

They shivered while they lamented; a cry.

"When will the green leaves return to the trees?

When will we see newborn lambs, birds and bees?"

And Winter looked upon the folk, aghast

"Are they not pleased that I'm here, at last?

My frosty tricks and my snowy displays

Aren't meant to bring sorrow, but to amaze!"

He stood up tall, he stood up and he said

"I'm sorry... sorry folks, but look here instead!"

"Witness the crisp air on this cold, clear night

Look out at the stars and watch them, so bright!

Yes, it is true that the cold that I bring

Can make you feel raw, and yes it can sting

But without that there nip of Winter's touch

Your fires, Sun and hugs wouldn't mean much.

I turn down the lights so that yours may shine

All the lighter, brighter, warmer than mine."

And so, on hearing his words and his pain

The folk, one year on - they tried once again.

Stopping and staring at every snowflake

Every brisk breath in the air when they wake.

Taking Winter's icy chills as a sign

To huddle together, to feast, to dine;

Radiant with joy, with hope and belief -

They welcomed Winter, and gave him no grief.

"Thank you, O Lord of the dark and the cold

For now, yes, we know, yes we have been told -

You cannot feel the warmth unless it's gone

Thanks for your tricks, and let the snow - snow on."