Winter Solstice

hand raised in shield and salute
I’ve watched my retreating love
disappear southward
          his warmth a mockery
          his smile weak and distant
          the cold of his absence
          claims my world

each day sees a larger plot
of my heart in shadow and frost
as he grows smaller
          and now the rain
          has washed away
          the consoling memory
          of his wink and grin

someone tells me
he has turned
reconsidered his leaving…
          tomorrow and tomorrow
          will he be nearer?
          will his closeness thaw my heart?
          when will I know?