By Bette Lafferty
Tampa Branch (Florida)

A blast of frigid Arctic air thundered into the Texas Hill Country
during the night rattling the windowpanes. The trees danced
to the rhyme of the fierce winds tossing small branches
here and there sending them crashing to the ground.
Temperatures dropped into the low twenties.
The weatherman suggested it’s just a sample of things to come
cautioning us to get prepared.
Hopefully, the electrical grids have been improved
preventing blackouts like the ones we experienced last year.
No promises have been offered; only higher prices are guaranteed.
Millions of dollars in damages were caused by the freezing temperatures,
and a repeat would only exasperate the pain Texans are feeling
from inflation, Covid, and job losses. As for me,
I’m hibernating in my little apartment with blinds closed,
my heater purring away and three layers of clothing
holding in my body heat. I am thankful that I have all I need –
food, water, electricity, and a roof over my head.
An unseen presence fills me with gratitude and peace,
and I am free to welcome winter’s arrival.