Maple Leaf

I am leaf emerging in spring
from buds resting on the branches
of my homestead.

I sing green in all my glory
all summer long
giving shade to the forest.

I will fill your soul with the fragrance of my love.
I will love you like a sweet violet,
hold you gently in my arms.

Oh wandering species human,
you may bring heavy steps to my woods,
but come.

Come in my autumn stretch
when my rainbow sings on a carpet
of red yellow orange purple brown.

The lips of my ruffled tips
flirt with the wind.
I sing I flutter I rain on the ground.

I live in the forest of dreams
where tears of reckless love
find soothing relief.

Within my halls you may contemplate
the mysteries of life and death
and your current relationships.

I shelter the trail you may walk
in solitude and prayer.
So take off your dark robes of despair.

Break the frozen chain binding your sorrows.
Leave them with me.
I will send them sailing on the skirts of the wind.

© Teresa E. Gallion 2003