Winter Learns (alternate version)

[Verse]
You waited under iron ground,
While every orchard broke its sleep.
No calendar could call you up;
You kept your own dark promise deep.

[Chorus]
Then through the frost your green note turns,
A crooked vine through frozen stone.
The thaw can take its numbered place—
You choose the hour you call your own.

[Outro]
One small leaf against the snow,
And winter learns to let it grow.