Photo @ Dale Rogerson

Each day before I break my fast, I spend some time before this glass

A window gaily framed by green, by lights both festive and obscene

When I do turn and look behind, a melancholy scene I find

Look forward, Christmas and good cheer

Look backward, desolation, heartbreak, fear

Ode to Joy does not play here, tinsel, glitter, nowhere near

No winter booties, gloves, or miffs. No food … no hope

I gaze upon the scene and pray, let Christmas ‘20 fear allay

Look forward, Christmas, love, goodwill

Look backward, fear and panic, still

Friday fictioneers is a weekly challenge set by Rochelle Wisoff Fields to write a story in response to a photo prompt – in 100 words or less. You can find other stories here.