It’s different this time around

Changes in the way I hear

The holiday sounds

All around

I am reminded of a new normal

Changing customs 

Different yet warming

I have had 28 consistent years

So this was the year of more

Inconsistencies 

Some deliberately

Changes made inadvertently 

But in time I will see 

The effects of small moves

Start as ripples 

But shapes into grooves 

My new life ahead

Changes inevitable 

The lines I could have read

No matter what they said

Thee seasons were different this year

Missing loved ones 

I wish were here