Below Freezing

Shivering knees oblivious to icy winds,

clatter not from without, but the coldness within.

Like morning dew frozen on bending leaves

springtime is taken by adulterated thieves.

For who can say when a child outgrows,

the innocence of adolescence, the devil she knows.

That life with its thistles, pricks, and thorns

who relentlessly surpass each winter reborn.

Are stronger than the heart betrayed once more,

though nature heals, our bruises stay sore.