which is to say
we have never seen trees die.

We have seen them break from the root
hurl their limbs against windows
snaptwist like brittle bone.

We have seen hurricanes
transparent oceans
and a sun that is a sun
that burns freckles onto your skin.

We have seen months without rain
and months without electricity.
We have known the mythology of seasons
and the mythology of separation.

Mother,
You have never known true winter
which is to say
we are no longer together.

Image: John Cameron