The Sun

by Oliver Tiro, 13

All was quiet around the house, nothing from anything, not even a sound. My room felt cold, I felt the chilly breeze. The water beside my bed, it seemed as if it would freeze. My eyelids were heavy, a sleep sensation. The dark gray sky, snow falling from above, my dog needing a walk. The only thing that was missing was someone to exchange words with. In a flash I put on my coat and my soft winter boots. I felt joy, I felt merry. The wind was howling a pleasant tune like a domestic canary. I took a step onto the fresh soft snow. It’s been a while since it snowed like this, this snow seemed to be as if it came from someone’s wish. Though the night was cold and gray, it made me feel like it was a warm and fuzzy day. I stepped onto the sidewalk, the falling snowflakes looked as if they were dancing under the potent moonlight. Seemed to be twirling round and round until they eventually became a part of the rest on the ground below. The night was quite dark, but no fear was struck into me. I spent some time walking outside. Pondering about whatever there was to ponder, whatever came to mind. Thoughts about the world, thoughts about what’s going on in life so far. These thoughts kept me company. I was quite the distance from home. I was at the river. I sat down facing east. My dog sat beside me. Waiting for dusk, waiting to be bathed in the sun’s warmth. That’s when I began to see the sun rise. Even after the cold dark winter night, having to make it seem better than it was, the sun still rose. The sun always comes.

Red Bank, NJ

*This piece was the second place winner of Voice & Verse as well as the first place winner of Freedom of Expression, 2024 writing contests.