When the sun is just right in December
and you’re walking around the block in your old neighborhood
(where you grew up)
you’ll see boxes that give wings to words,

woodland animals visiting for a season

(or longer)

and magical beasts considering flight to parts unknown.

You may see things that are lost

not quite right 

or deeply unsettling.

When the sun is just right in December
and you’re walking around the block in your old neighborhood
(where you grew up)
it’s funny how a deflated Rudolph can break your heart

while a lamppost nearby promises light

*

Deep in December, it’s nice to remember…