The Winter of My Soul

The winter of my soul I sit in my rocking chair and gaze out the window The first snow fell last night, coating the trees In a blanket of winter splendor. The deer graze at the edge of the pasture, Searching for the leftovers of the fall harvest. Their days here are numbered, like mine. Soon they will go to higher ground, much like me. I can't stay, regardless of how much I wish it to be. My illness invades every cell, destroying any future But I will leave on my terms, in my way. I watch as the deer wander off, disappearing into the forest. I am filled with awe that I was allowed this last gift. The gentleness of their nature brings me comfort. Today will be the day, I decide. No regrets. As I face the winter of my soul.