First the poem. It's a terrific expression of the potential of winter that most people just don't see. They see the work and bother of the weather but not what it means to the earth and the creatures of. I'll admit to not seeing the potential when I had a 10' drift in front of my door :)
Now the submissions: I'm really glad to see you doing that. The rejections sting but you can know they are not rejecting you but only the piece you wrote. They simply do not have the power to reject you. Ever.
And the very best rejections will have editorial suggestions. Often rejections come because of editorial needs that writers just don't know (our entire issue is celebrating spring. We don't need another winter submission. Try again in 9 months.)
Always good to see you here. Thanks for sharing a terrific poem.
Super sweet comment, Tom, thank you. Yes, the beauty of winter is kinda relative to the amount of suffering you're experiencing along with that beauty. ;) But it is a gorgeous time of year, as nature is always shining in one way or another. As for the submissions, thank you. It's an ongoing thing and I needed to get back into the swing of things. :)