This Year

I haven't seen her
this happy
in years.

Usually,
the winter is cold
and unrelenting
and long.

It's a constant reminder
of death.

This year seems
to be different.

Usually,
the punishing frost
makes her want
to slit her wrist
to the bone.

This year
it's a little bit
warm
and she
has a glow,
a confidence
in herself
that makes me smile.

This year
we can finally
celebrate
our lives.

Goddammit
we are
happy.

For now....