Valentine’s Day

Caught in a climate
so callous and cold,
Born of a bearing
benumbing and bold,
There is a pause
that defies winter’s way
Known unto people
as Valentine’s Day.

Not in the summer
when weather is warm,
Not in the season
that’s senseless to storm,
Not when the birds and
the blooms are their best —-
No, it arrives when the
days are distressed.

This is symbolic:
a heart where it shows,
Melting for others
their mantle of snows,
Giving life’s ribs
an affectionate shove.
Such is the soul
and the substance of love.