THE AUTUMN OF MY LIFE

Written especially for Monty's Traditional Poetry Contest

THE AUTUMN OF MY LIFE

I noticed today that the leaves are turning color,
shades of orange, yellow and brilliant red hue.
It is autumn once more, so soon it came this year.
The time of harvest, a time to bid summer adieu.

It is also the autumn of my life. Now it seems
that the years have suddenly slowed my steps.
Once I could run barefoot through spring grass.
I could face the coming winter with no regrets.

Leaves falling in a spiraling, earthbound descent
as one by one, I lay aside a dream long held.
I am now content to live in silent contemplation,
to rest, to stand until I, like the trees, are felled.

Perhaps another spring will come, and new life
will burst forth, surviving winter's chill and strife.
I may yet see another spring and summer pass,
and I may welcome another autumn in my life.

Countrymom
9/9/07