xmas in the city

although there's

a string of Christmas

lights that adorn

the bars

on the windows,

and a wreathe on the door

of the convenient store,

it does not feel warm

and welcoming.

there are cameras

in every corner,

the lone employee

is protected inside 

a bullet proof glass cube

with a small

opening to slide your

card or cash through.

will your car

still be there

when you leave with your

bread and milk, 

will there be

a gun

in your ribs, a hooded man

or two

asking

for your wallet,

your phone, your keys?

it's Christmas

again in northeast dc.