as the days grow shorter
and darkness swallows
the warmth of summer sun
all that was flush and green
within this heart fades quietly
into a colorful oblivion
and the thoughts once pregnant
with new growth and understanding
linger now upon the precipice
of winter’s deep dive
waiting for fire’s soft flame
to give hue back to these flush
cheeks and patient soul
this body awaits the impending cold
with tolerance and mercy