Colorful blossoms
speak of summer’s balm,
long sunny days
so bright and warm;
yet . . .

Look closer still;
the light’s not right
and gives clue to
the photo’s lie.

It is just
the second wind
of the sturdy few
framed within the square
while just beyond
spent branches bend
wearing the
faded green of fall.

But for today
let’s embrace
the posies’ cheer.
Feel the gentler sun
upon our face
a welcome softness
for our eyes;
since winter’s touch
does lurk
just the other side
of fall.

© CPaulin 2015