Bare

The last of the leaves,

swirling in their letting go,

unveiled in autumn's glow,

now reveal the

true beauty of 

her intricate branches, 

bare, yet reaching

heavenward.

Though Winter's chilly

winds may gust,

and her arms bow low,

she'll be able to stand.

Her graceful limbs grow

strong, enduring Winter's rest.

Hopeful, budding green

will sprout again in Spring. 

Her graceful branches,

dressed in Spring's newness

stretching skyward,

into vivid blue, inviting, 

attract a feathered friend

to perch awhile

 and share an 

enchanting song 

heard before, but only

in her dreams...  
© 2012 Marie Nease  

  Hope deferred makes the heart sick,
   but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.

Proverbs 13:12