December 1

Here we go, turning that last corner,
Into the end of another year.
It’s been a long one, no matter
The number of actual days.
My weary brain is ready
For a different start, a new count
To begin, to reset and refresh.

Still, in these ever-longer nights
There are so many festivals of light.
I seek them out, marking the sparkling
Parades on my calendar.
I light candles as soon as dusk falls
And let the flames send out
Their quiet, smoky prayers.

Photo by Andres F. Uran on Unsplash