Day 48

the universe is infinite and two feet tall
laughs and draws herself
holding hands with Baba Yaga

Day 49

given the state of humanity
I place my hope in monsters

Day 50

[A Day Before 52]

Today at home: a birthday gift I’ve given myself
during this cold, wet season; the silence falls

in snow and refracted sunbeams. safe
with hot coffee and warm socks
I am anxious about eating eggs

so I showered and shaved
like the men from my childhood did —

whether or not the world ends.
Then, meditating on the three states of water,
offer up a thankful prayer

that the ice did not stretch its way
into my veins: the gift given me today.