Cold Morning

The house is chilly. Turn up the thermostat and the furnace blows warm air smelling of burnt dust, bringing comfort to your skin. In the bathroom, take a shower and turn up the water warmer than usual. The steam gathers towards the ceiling like a small cloud. The mirror can't reflect your tired face because the cloud stuck to it, blocking the view. Dress a little warmer choosing that heavier, soft shirt. For breakfast, hot oatmeal sprinkled with cinnamon and molten brown sugar. Plus scrambled eggs and melted cheese. Slowly, carefully, absorb this moment while tasting every bite bursting with conflicting flavors: spice, tart cheese, orange. No matter--it's the comforting routine. Go, finish with brushing your teeth. Pull on your coat, gather your keys, press the unlock button as the car acknowledges with a short honk, step out, and breathe in the cold, fresh air that brings your lungs and brain to life.