The Frost Bitten Leaf

O last withering leaf hold on to the bough Whatever be the terror caused by the lightning Whatever the ruthless winds may avow Your glory lies in waiting until spring The sun did not cross the barrier of cloud To save you from the tyrant hands of frost You had the gift of survival endowed You are breathing still, all isn’t lost Take courage, hold on, don’t let it go The earth may prepare the hearse for you Chilling winds may move you to and fro The gardener aiming to pick you and throw That may be true but, if you break in despair My plea not consider nor my counsel care The delicate young shoots then who will shield From the onslaught of the fierce and cruel wind