Wafting Leaves

Crimson leaves gently wafting to the ground, thou hast done thy duty! You graced my maple tree, now you adorn my lawn with untold beauty! I saw thy nativity as buds in spring and throughout the summer days. Now in the autumn of thy lives you carpet my lawn with scarlet blaze! Alas, the subtle winds of October loosed thy grip on that ancient tree. It saddens me somewhat to see thee go but you've had a glorious spree! I saw thee dancing in the summer breezes and you provided shade for me. You weathered the storms of pelting rain and hail with grace and dignity! Robins that nested 'neath thy sheltering canopy have taken wing, But they'll return to set up housekeeping again come next spring! Squirrels scurried 'mongst thee, playing hide and seek on summer days, And sprawled 'neath thy jade umbrella to avoid the sun's searing rays! You've shed thy brilliant leaves and now the old maple looks so stark. As if in prayer, its barren limbs reach for the sky with furrowed bark! I anticipate thy return next spring - you've given me so much pleasure! Bleak winter days lie ahead but the beauty of thy season I shall treasure! Robert L. Hinshaw, CMSgt, USAF, Retired © All Rights Reserved Entry for Carol Brown's "Leaves" Contest