I was sitting out on the lawn one day late into the fall contemplating the environment. It was a typical fall day when the weather moves rapidly from one setting to another. It was warm and the sun was shining. Soon a dark cloud covered the sun and a chill wind picked up. Then a light rain began to fall. Just that quickly the sun came out again and there was a beautiful rainbow in the sky. I retired to my study where I sat down and wrote this poem.

It is Autumn

Bulldozer in landfill
Or Perhaps Winter?
A squirrel runs in fits and starts,
Then darts up a tree.
The sun hides behind a dark cloud.
A cold rain begins to fall.
Like a child playing peek-a-boo,the sun briefly returns.
A rainbow arches across the clouds.
Now it is gone again and it is getting darker.
A chill wind begins to blow
And some fallen leaves swirl into the street.
Everything seems to be in constant change.
It is a time of transition.
It is autumn.

My mind runs in fits and starts.
Was it yesterday the daffodils bloomed?
Now the geraniums are turning brown.
Was it yesterday I played hopscotch in the driveway?
Now I can hardly walk a hundred yards.
Was it yesterday I courted Mary?
Now our love fits like an old glove.
There once were many days when the sun was warm and bright.
Now, there seem to be more days when it is cold and cloudy.
Everything seems to be in constant change.
It is a time of transition.
It is autumn.

History moves in fits and starts.
This earth was once bright and fresh,
A veritable Garden of Eden.
A man trampled a rose,
And crushed it under his heel.
A rabbi taught us how to live in peace,
Yet we search for new ways to kill.
The sun once shone brightly across the valley.
Now a pungent, yellow smog hides its warmth.
Everything seems to be in constant change.
It is a time of transition.
Indeed, my friends, it is autumn.

- Jay D Weaver

Copyright © Jay D Weaver - October 16, 2004

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