Changes

Distorted music and familiar smells

bring an ache, this time of year

Carolers singing jingle bells

distributing their cheer

Snowflakes falling, it's Christmas time

families gather round their trees

But I find it hard to smile, sometimes

because you aren't here with me

Snow cascades the gravestone

wilted flowers, wrapped in frost

It's a hard season to be alone

and some days, I feel lost

The sleet taps on my window

bidding me to come and play

But the holidays can take a toll

again, I lock myself away

The ornaments and keepsakes

this year, stayed upon the shelf

No dinner or cookies being baked

as I sit quietly, alone

Maybe next year I will answer

when the snowflakes come to call

But today, will go unanswered

mingling with memories on my wall