Fallen Leaves

The leaves of autumn shift from green

To show their colors bright,

And drop upon the soil below

To sleep through winter’s night.

The clouds begin their march anew

Then bring a drop or two,

While north winds blow the chill around

And hide the blue sky’s view.

I look then ponder deep inside

The cycle we call life.

Will cold winds come and penetrate

And cut me like a knife?

What happens next while in the ground?

Will I just rot away?

Or is there more beyond the grave,

Or are we held at bay?

Thus while I ponder on these thoughts

My mind soon turns to spring,

Just how the leaves seem lifted up

While morning birds then sing.

Then I’m not saddened by the Fall;

I will not rot away!

I’ll be once more with joy fulfilled

To live another day!

-G. Talley