A Winter Season

Does the leaf know that he’s dying

As the warmth of summer fades

And the sun is now the color of his clothes

Or waving at us in the wind

Until the quiet dive of death

Is he smiling

Is the mother oak grieving for her child

That forms on her strong branch

Knowing she will watch him grow and dance

And turn to gold, a bracelet on her arm

Just for her jewel to rust and be left

Naked

Or do these trees and leaves see past

The fast approaching winter

O death – can it be death when there is spring?

But when they part come winter’s chill

His veins, her bark, they feel it still

The sting

BD Pierce