A Merciless Winter by Farida Shamim

A Merciless Winter Farida Shamim How cruel you are, Winter —couldn’t you wait a little longer?Why didn’t you waituntil the children fell asleep,their dreams unbroken,their bellies not empty?My little ones lie down hungry,and now —how could I cover them,how could I protect themfrom your harsh, merciless air?Can’t you see —we can no longer see tomorrowwe can’t even weep.Our tears have turned to salt,our hearts to smoke.Can’t you feelthe pain we endure?Couldn’t you waituntil the sun of faith rose againto touch the facesthat still believe in warmth?How cruel you are, Winter —to come when we are already cold.