Trees Meditate in Autumn

Trees meditate in autumn;

exposed branches sigh in relief -
open and new, of pale gray hue
offering shelter to no one;
bearing no fruit

in vital non-use,
they breathe God.

Reposed and peaceful;
each falling leaf a
a tiny tree-heart

laid low on the ground
at His feet.

The mighty oak
never dreams of spring -

modestly firm, she prays;
bearing all seasons simply.

Written November 2, 2003