A tree lives outside my window
Its appearance: a leafless, barren stick
Muddy, ugly land around it
About as lovely as a tick.

The late Winter weather
Causes mud from melted snow
The ground is still and life less
Too cold for anything to grow.  

The wind remains a biting cold
It comes out of the North
Urging us to stay inside
Warning us: don’t venture forth

Yet, the Winter weather
Should not cause despair
Soon will come the Springtime
With green grass and crisp fresh air  

So don’t dismay with the cold North wind
Or, lose hope with the ugly, barren ground
Soon green grass of Spring will emerge
Blue sky, warm sun, and joy will be found.