while we are like this

Each year, December arrives feeling different and yet deeply familiar, warm layers drawn closer, small gestures exchanged, giving and receiving moving gently through the days like something instinctive. People carry themselves more softly now, care appearing in unhurried steps, lingering glances, voices eased by patience, as if the season briefly loosens what is usually held tight. Walking through the aisles, I stayed with that feeling as it passed through ordinary moments, grateful for its steady calm,

and quietly wishing we carried it with us once the lights fade and the months turn plain again.