Winter solstice
in the bright sunlight and the clear desert sky
with no clouds for the sky to paint
save for the water coloring on the mountains
as the sun flows across the landscape
shadowing the cactus making spots
and the leopard that runs across the sands
towards the snow peaks towards the glow
and disappears in light
a brightness running to cover
and blanket twilight with music lights
stars patient in their watch for the moon
stars moving in that slow dance
that feels like love
A. MENDOZA, 12-2018
