Autumn of sadness –
Missing those who are gone,
Remembering times forever past,
Wondering why I am still here.
Autumn of brownness and barrenness –
Falling leaves and hard soil
Chill winds and shortened days,
Rains that fall like bitter teams,
Moving to a darker season.
Autumn of joy –
Welcoming change and growth,
Challenging the old and risking the new,
Cherishing glimpses of hope.
Autumn of contrast and celebration –
September of new beginning,
October of glorious change,
November of warm thanksgiving,
Preparation for a new season.
Autumn of new time and place –
Magic of radiant contrast,
Appreciating all by knowing each,
Embracing moments of beauty,
Sensing serenity in change.
— JDR 10/20/88