I roll out of my warm cocoon to peer out the window.

Sunlight reflects off the dazzling diamonds blanketing the earth.

The snow beckons me like a warm, loving friend while

Homework gives me an icy, reproachful look.

In defiance, I bundle up and bound out the door.

I size up the snow, and then…

3… 2… 1… Go!

Without a care,

I leap into the smooth surface of the snow

And leave behind delightful footprints.

Time flies when I’m having fun, and yet

My steps have lost their lightness.

No longer can I savor the simple things in life.

No longer can I leave carefree footprints in the snow.

Instead, I drive in the same muddy tracks that the person before me

Left in the once pure snow.