as if it snowed

I take a long walk
through the narrow streets,
the high hills
of town.
the stars are out. it's nearly warm.
an odd
December day.
houses are lit
with flickering strings of lights.
the bright glow
of green and blue and red,
sleighs
and santas,
a thousand ornaments
on display.
I stop on occasion to look in,
and see inside
some windows the gatherings.
the laughter.
the food, the opening of gifts,
the toasts and pouring
of drinks.
i hear familiar music play.
there is no one out, but me.
no cars, no trucks.
my boots step softly on the pavement.
there is the purity of quiet
as if snow had
fallen and fallen
on this Christmas eve.