The Winds

-------The Winds-------

When the strong wind comes 

and scatters

all the things 

we have been holding

Lift your vision to the trees,

to the branches

who once, too

held golden leaves

And see, like it was 

the first time,

the empty forest

filling with light.

-------

Openings to Autumn

------- Openings to Autumn-------

All around

the hills are opening and turning gold

as each leaf,

one by one,

reveals its hidden color.

Allow the shame you hold against your heart

to be a light that breaks you open

and know that you belong here,

shining,

with all the other leaves.

-------

You Who Seek the Change

-------You Who Seek the Change-------

As the desperate and stubborn 

dig in their heels

May you who seek the change

be like the mist 

that holds the light in morning,

And illuminate 

this complicated forest

With the grace of your presence

and the sincerity

of your questioning.

-------

Right on Time

-------Right on Time-------

Put aside the date for a moment

and let this morning touch you

with its stillness

and its grace.

The golden light reflects 

off a herons wings

as Autumn begins

right on time.

-------

Shelter

-------Shelter-------

Hearing may report 

the rumbles of thunder

and eyes the darkening sky.

But just knowing the signs of rain

will not keep you 

from getting wet.

Like this,

kind words alone 

can do only so much for pain.

But a heart filled with love

will be your shelter

through any storm.

-------