JILL A. SCOTT
A Winter Resolve

The rain cannot decide
if it wants to be snow or ice
or just rain...
The pools that form in the cracks
of the pavement
threaten to freeze;
and turn side walkers
into slapstick comedians
as they stroll
distracted by street lamps
reflecting off the snow- ice-rain
puddles beneath their feet.
The collective umbrellas
shelter all but the misguided
holiday shopper
who saves a moment
by passing in the street
at the expense of
a verdant suede blazer
glittering with unidentifiable
moisture crystals.
A shop keeper lays rock salt
beyond the threshold
of her shop, smiling at
the passers-by;
brushing wet bangs from
her eyes, with a gloved hand.
She glances at
the bank clock across the street.