As snow descends on city streets he goes
from store to store this hectic Christmas Eve.
He wants a special gift for Anna Rose,
who waits for his return. As shoppers weave
around him, on a shelf he sees a face
with azure eyes and tresses made of gold.
His purchase made, he soon departs that place
for country walk. He does not mind the cold.
The snow no longer falls. The stars are bright.
A hoot owl’s benedictions far away
assure him peace on earth will reign tonight
for lonely souls who still believe and pray.
Then, mindful of a life no one could save,
he puts the doll upon his daughter’s grave.

Published December 7th, 2022