The window’s view of the gray morning sky

encourages January’s deception

Warm, foggy air slips through the front door --

an unseasonable reception.

The cardinals’ fiery plumage dress the naked branches,

confused by the false spring’s messengers.

Jackets grabbed in haste fall forgotten,

silent back seat passengers.

Motorists respond with opened windows and waves,

joyful in the sudden change --

Blasts of music fill the warm air as they pass,

off-key voices join the exchange.

Like a treasure found in the midst of a desert,

the respite brings celebration,

Appreciation of the release from the cold, bitter winds,

of Winter’s domination.

Yet, this tease, this taste, this single day of pleasure

serves nature’s lessons well:

It is a reminder that Spring will come again,

the Savior will escape from hell.

Hope survives the bleakest of days, of nights

Peace will reign once more;

Nature reassures us in her year-long dance

with her seasons four.