i was puzzled by a dream

it happens in the same way each year.

huddled into myself, looking for some nuance of warmth, i walk across the ringing pavement that is coated with a thick layer of frost. the sounds of the people crossing the bridge to my left are crystal clear. i imagine that if i concentrated, i'd be able to hear what the boy is whispering to the girl. then i'd know why she's blushing and telling him to shush. the windows of the building i am approcahing are glowing softly, offering a semblance of warmth in image only.

i invaribly look up.

i remember reading a book once that was one of those dorky self-help-love-yourself-good-feelings things. in it, there was a passage about mothers, and generic things you should know about your mother. the entry that stuck out at me was concerning the stars. the book claimed that regardless of who she is, your mother's favourite constellation is orion's belt.

when i invariably look up on the first true night of the winter season, i'm always greeted by this delicate constellation. it gleams with silver cold light, challenging me.