When Winter Arrives

When Winter arrives,
I would advise you not to let her in.
But I warn, she does not give up easily.
You may lose this war.
So if you find that you must welcome her inside,
tell her to keep her shoes on.
Let her know she is not to make herself at home.

When Winter arrives, offer her a cup of tea.
It won’t matter how much the kettle whistles.
Her cold fingertips, once they hit the ceramic handle,
will freeze the liquid anyway.
When engaging in conversation,
avoid her gaze.
Her piercing stare will cause your eyes to water.
Avoid her touch.
Her hands will cause your skin to frostbite.

And when you find that Winter is ready to depart,
you will think she has not outstayed her welcome,
but let her go.
You only think you miss her.
You must let her go.
But this way, the next time Winter arrives,
you may learn to appreciate her more.