the trees are wheezing tonight

their shadows shaking
taking deep, shallow breaths
in and out, because they know
what’s coming

I inhale wind and wake up,
understanding their fear

we remember blue skies
but will wake to gray horizons
the days will flow into nights
seamlessly

I am afraid because the trees are afraid
the stronger of the two of us is shaken

the trees are shivering tonight

their bare limbs remind me that winter
is not over yet