Once In a While

A torn, tender leaf In a majestic tree, I shield myself. I fear winds! My glossy green Has an autumnal layer. I try to stay still; But, Once in a while, Those dew drops Skitter over me, Kiss me, Glisten me. And as I am touched, I flutter, I dance, I go glorious! Then follows fall, And I, in my throes and ache, Turn ravishing red, Charming orange. Though the tree is bare, I stay there. I try to stay still; But, Once in a while, A drift of breeze Sweeps over me, Shakes me, Rakes me. And as I am touched, I flutter, I dance, I go glorious! Spring is the season, The tree is lush again. I still shield myself; I fear winds! I shield My glossy green, Ravishing red, Charming orange, All under the autumnal layer. But, Once in a while, Someone, somewhere, Reaches beneath; Like dew drops, Or drift of breeze, Skittering, Sweeping Over and Over. And as I am touched, I flutter, I dance, I go glorious!