A harsh wind stings my eyes as

Reminders of summer’s fall from grace

Graze my cheeks.

Red with shame they cascade down

On me to lie at last

On a brown blanket of pine needles

That nestle and cover the ground

Preparing for a long winter’s night.

I pull my jacket closer, inhale the

Crisp smells

Of autumn and enjoy the dance

Careful not to trust  too much

In nature swirling around me,

Knowing that soon

All will be laid bare and

I will hold my breath

Until dawn warms the earth

With promises of flowers

And lazy summer days.