December

A low morning sun threw fluttering
shadows against my window.
I thought, the angels have come.

Maybe it was just small birds, feasting
on winter berries, but I thought angels,
and thought they’ve whispered

in our ears, for something grows inside.
Our walks change with the weight of it.
Our eyes reach out for what is small, 

tender, shining,  Something wants
to be born into this world, and we 
grow inward and heavy with it.

— Nils Peterson 

Initiated in 1982, The Cycle is comprised of seven stories, one told each year close to the date on which it takes place.

Vessel, The Annunciation will premiere on December 14, 2024.