Red wine swirls in the glass,
A deep crimson longing,
A sip of warmth,
A taste of hope.

The holiday spirit hums,
Soft carols in the air,
Lights flickering promises
Of something brighter.

I raise the glass to the mirror,
A quiet toast to the wanting—
To be kinder, to be better,
To let love linger longer.

Each sip a reflection,
Each thought a spark,
In the quiet glow of the season,
I vow to start.