The Christmas Visit
The Christmas Visit
Dimly lit room with flowered wallpaper,
A bride chamber for a couple, 1920.
Coal dust between her fingers,
a strong back,
waiting for the annual Christmas visit.
“My husband’s coming to town, on the 4:00 train.''
Scented linens and a stern picture of Jesus Christ
New curtains to match the comforter.
Grandmother
Mother
Mother-in-law
Church woman
Daughter
Caregiver
Woman in love with one wish
Snowflake tryst while
Time stands still and is a giving friend tonight.
Invalid mother,
Rocks and prays.
Sits and sighs.
12/9/16
Out of the Box
Kai Michael Neumann
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