AUTUMN LEAVES

Thickly fall the Autumn leaves, unlovely on the pathways strewn.   Some erstwhile to a branch still cleave; east wind will force them off quite soon.

Shorn of their pride and joy, the trees stand stark against a windswept sky, and sway forlornly in the breeze, near lifeless now the sap's run dry.

Thro' deepest winter's cold embrace, thin arms outstretched, their vigil keep; until at last Spring shows its face, when from the earth first flowers peep.

And now once more the trees begin to feel a tingle in their roots, whilst new life comes pulsating in, birthing hosts of tiny shoots.

Soon unfold the leaves full grown, where the branch was bare and dry; enhancing countryside and town, underneath a cobalt sky.

From distant shores the birds return to build their nests in tree and hedge; then Spring thro' Summer they sojourn, until their young are fully fledged.

And so full circle once again, the leaves their seasonal cycle run, return to earth from whence they came, leaving the trees to stand alone.

But though the wait seems long and drear, nature's law is not gainsayed.  They'll be renewed again next year, in every lovely forest glade.

Mg