The Zero

Open-mouthed and young 
I trudged into the Zero,
wrapped cap to gloves to soles
against the Zero, hollering
over the Zero wind, spoiling
for a swing and a hit
in a fight against the Zero.
I had not yet learned
that no one fights the Zero
who wants to survive it.
I was lucky. I did not fall
to it. Now, I watch the Zero
from where it’s warm
and keep my mouth shut
to keep the Zero
from getting in,
though I do tell my kids
to be wary and safe,
as it’s a cold world out there.
I think they’re still
listening to me,
though I do see them
at the windows
when they think I am not looking,
staring
into what I have forbidden
more often than ever before.