Solstice

Outside you will die
In minutes, if you're not
Protected by the warmth of other people's hands
Their labour
The works of their lives

Inside you will die
In decades, if you're not
Protected by the warmth of other people's vulnerability
Their kindness
The communities they build and strengthen

Inside and out we will all die
That's why we mark midwinter
With a fire that dances valiantly against the dark
Against the cold
But every spring the fire goes out

A goose honks protest out in the cold

My heart determines to seek lower latitudes