WARMTH IN WINTER

The snow was falling. The first thing I saw was the shimmering fairy lights hanging from the Neimans’ lawn right across the street. The first thing I felt was the warm mittens of Jasmine Fanning on my eyes. “Hey Mr. Robertson, long time no see, huh?” the five-year-old waved to me in a toothy chagrin.

“It’s cold out there, Jasmine!” said Thomas, her older brother who was home fresh from college. “Here, let me give you my scarf.” he offered his sister. “I don’t need it, Tommy, but maybe Mr. Robertson is chilly.” So she wore it around my neck, and suddenly, all so suddenly, the air felt less cold. The little girl then went to her mother and asked, “Mom, do you have an extra carrot?”

The two then went outside and placed a carrot on the middle of my face. Upon which, I could finally smell the joy of the season. The delicacies of a winter wonderland filled my senses --- from the vivid scent of freshly baked cookies to cinnamon rolls to caramel apple pie. T’was a feeling as warm as a bonfire. 

Then, as I look around, I see headlights in the distance. Jake Fanning must have come to visit this year. 

“Dad!” Jasmine Fanning said as she dashed into the arms of her father.”I knew you’d come to see me this year!” 

The father kissed the girl on the cheek. “Of course I would Jassy, even though your mother and I have divorced, I would always want to spend Christmas with you.” Tears stung into his son’s eyes as well.

“Hold on. I do think the snowman is missing something.” The father said, reaching into the trunk of his car and bringing out a big hat.

Jasmine’s eyes gleamed. “There. Now, Mr. Robertson can be a proper snowman,” she said happily, feeling contented, and truly radiant. As he put the hat onto me, I have never felt more complete in the short span of my life. In those moments, I felt the warmest flame of all — love.

Day descended into the night, and the family long left me. 

When the sun rose, I melted. But that’s okay. Next year when the snow will inevitably fall again, I will meet their love once more.