Cold windy February night – a cold glittering moon – The air is so cold that it enhances the night – Deep mystery— A tall dark pine tree stands by – I raise my eyes to the sky, fling wide my arms and pray to God to forgive me my sins, my lust, my hideous thoughts, my cheapness I go in the house but my thoughts drive me forth again—
To the creek towards the dam — Oh the vastness of the deep sky, – eternity – again I raise my arms & implore God – I fall on my knees – it is not enough I fall on my face – press my forehead to the snow – at last the tears come – the wind roars past – I grow cold and I rejoice in being cold – I come away in peace—
Charles E. Burchfield, February 14, 1930