Merry Christmas
Slipping through the crowded streets,
The snow sinks through fabric,
My eyes lock on something far away.
I hold my bag strap tight.
Past the countless big talkers,
The happy smiles,
I step on the crosswalk,
And feel a gust of snow.
It’s over now,
Everyone has given their dues,
So would you let me grieve,
My troubles I fear to let them go,
At least not just yet.
The lobby is unforgiving,
Hot and beaming with fluorescents.
A uncaring nod at me,
And I’m off to the stairs.
Climbing one by one,
I feel the weight,
As if every single one hates me,
My sins,
My regrets,
They don’t cast off easily.
3
7
9
12
13
The damp stairway,
Holding the regrets of janitors
The melancholy of ordinary fellows,
My hand grabs the handle.
The door opens for me alone,
And welcomes me to a quieter world.
The freshet drops,
Fall on my sweaty locks,
Hat in pocket,
Marlboros in hand.
Cast a light to forget,
Bring fire to extinguisher,
And once it’s on your lips,
You can finally remember.
Every painful thing,
From the second it began,
To here and now.
This year is over.
And I promise,
Even as you exhale,
Letting the tears fall,
You’re stronger now.
You’re stronger now.
That is my gift to you.