FEBRUARY'S FIRE

February, late 14c., from februa "purifications, expiatory rites", of unknown origin, said to be a Sabine word. The last month of the ancient (pre-450 B.C.E.) Roman calendar, so named in reference to the Roman feast of purification, held on the ides of the month.

Purified by winter's cold fire

light shines from within

licking spring's green sun.

Earth unbuttons her february coat

loosens her woolen scarf

breathes more softly.

Coyote willow's red pulse

saltbushes' four wings 

become my own.